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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. What book does King Charles find on his way out of the castle?
(a) Romeo and Juliet.
(b) The Bible.
(c) A book of John Shade's poetry.
(d) Timon of Athens.

2. Following the death of King Charles' mother, Queen Blenda, a seance is held for what purpose?
(a) To convince Charles to marry Fleur.
(b) So Charles can talk to his mother.
(c) To rid the castle of evil spirits.
(d) To bring Queen Blenda's spirit back to earth.

3. John Shade recites his poetry to one person prior to its publication. Who is that person?
(a) His wife.
(b) Dr. Sutton.
(c) The king of Zembla.
(d) Charles Kinbote.

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

5. Queen Blenda's favorite hobby is ______ .
(a) Riding.
(b) Bird watching.
(c) Knitting.
(d) Singing.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who does King Charles finally marry?

2. "Forty ounces of fine sand" describes what in Canto One?

3. How do the people of Zembla aid in King Charles' flight?

4. Charles Kinbote criticizes an article written by Professor Hurley for what reason?

5. In the commentary to Line 181, Shade produces a book by what author and shows it to Sybil Shade?

Short Essay Questions

1. What clues do you see that Charles Kinbote may not be what he seems?

2. Briefly describe John and Sybil Shade's relationship.

3. What was the original use of the secret passageway in the Zemblan castle? Where does it lead?

4. Describe John Shade's writing process.

5. Give a brief synopsis of King Charles' escape.

6. What is significant about the bird in Canto One?

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

8. Name some sports at which Kinbote is proficient.

9. Briefly describe King Alfin the Vague.

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

(see the answer keys)

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