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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How does John Shade's daughter die?
(a) She freezes to death in a field.
(b) She drowns.
(c) She steps in front of a train.
(d) She poisons herself.

2. What typically goes on at the I.P.H.?
(a) People gather to discuss the after-life.
(b) People gather to discuss different species of birds.
(c) People gather to discuss Zemblan history.
(d) Poets gather to read their work.

3. What animal did Shade's parents study?
(a) Bears.
(b) Beavers.
(c) Birds.
(d) Bats.

4. Of the following, which has been added to Shade's childhood home?
(a) Electricity.
(b) A TV antenna.
(c) A chimney.
(d) A garage.

5. How does King Charles get out of the room where he is being held prisoner without being detected?
(a) He makes a rope ladder and climbs out the window.
(b) He disguses himself as a guard and walks out the front door.
(c) He seduces a guard who sets him free.
(d) He escapes through a secret passageway.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who is King Charles' grandfather?

2. John Shade recites his poetry to one person prior to its publication. Who is that person?

3. Which of the following best describes King Alfin the Vague?

4. The final couplet of "Pale Fire" describes what image?

5. What is the assassin's real name?

Short Essay Questions

1. List a few possible motivations for Shade's desire to learn more about the after-life.

2. Give examples from the text of reasons that the Extremists are unable to find King Charles once he escapes.

3. Name some sports at which Kinbote is proficient.

4. How is Kinbote's birthday gift for Shade representative of Kinbote's commentary of the poem?

5. What are some ways Kinbote tries to make the poem be about himself as opposed to Shade's childhood?

6. Briefly describe King Alfin the Vague.

7. What events lead to the death of John Shade's daughter?

8. What are some early examples of reflection as a theme in the poem "Pale Fire?"

9. Cite an early clue that Charles Kinbote is an unreliable narrator.

10. What do we learn about King Charles X in Canto Two?

(see the answer keys)

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