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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Commentary, Line 167: There was a time, etc. through Line 171: A great conspiracy.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Kinbote want us to believe was the catalyst for John Shade's choice to set "Pale Fire" during the winter months?
(a) Bird flying south for the winter.
(b) The great tragedy Shade has experienced during winter.
(c) Shade meeting Kinbote during the previous winter.
(d) The Zemblan King's assasination in January.

2. Where do the Shade's travel to take their minds off their daughter's death?
(a) France.
(b) Zembla.
(c) Italy.
(d) New Wye.

3. According to Kinbote, where did Sybil Shade relocate to upon John Shade's death?
(a) Cedarn,Utana.
(b) Zembla.
(c) Quebec.
(d) Russia.

4. Which of the following best describes the pervading theme of Canto Four?
(a) John Shade's time in Zembla.
(b) John Shade's writing process.
(c) John Shade's relationship with Charles Kinbote.
(d) John Shade's relationship with his family.

5. The phrase "pale fire" is used in the foreword to describe what?
(a) Index cards burning in an incinerator.
(b) The reflection of sunlight off the moon.
(c) A squirrel.
(d) The snow in New Wye.

Short Answer Questions

1. Canto Four contains a metaphor comparing this activity to John Shade's writing process?

2. What are the two ways to write according to Shade in Canto Three?

3. Which of the following is not mentioned by Shade in Canto One?

4. According to Kinbote, who was Thurgus the Third's lover?

5. Which of the following does not happen to the I.P.H.?

(see the answer key)

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