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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What neighborhood did Lin grow up in?

2. Who owns the bar Isaac frequents?

3. What does Benjamin do for a living?

4. From which department of the government does the parliament clerk receive the box of grubs?

5. What part of her body is Lin missing?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is a mafadet and where does Isaac encounter one?

2. How do the people of New Crobuzon react when they hear that Isaac is studying flying creatures?

3. What strange trade does Mayor Rudgutter make with the Weaver in exchange for his services?

4. What are the details of Dr. Barbile's death?

5. What does the grub look like when it emerges from its pupa?

6. How are Isaac and his friends captured by the militia?

7. Why does Isaac suddenly set all his winged laboratory creatures free?

8. What does Lin look like?

9. How do the Garudas react when Isaac comes to visit them in the Sputter?

10. Who is Yagharek, and what does he want from Isaac?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The events inside the Glasshouse are some of the most action-packed and riveting scenes in the entire novel. First, describe the Glasshouse, its occupants, and the social structure of the mini-city. Then, describe how this social structure is disrupted by the introduction of Isaac and his crew. How did this introduction lead to the death of many of Isaac's friends and many of the slake moths? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 2

There are many interesting characters in the novel, but perhaps none more interesting than Yagharek. First, describe Yagharek's physicality and explain how he came to look like this. Then, describe the relationship between Yagharek and Isaac - both professionally and personally. Do you think Yagharek deserved to be abandoned by Isaac at the end of the novel? Why or why not? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Essay Topic 3

At the opening of the novel, Lin's art is clearly the most important element in her life. First, describe Lin's art and her artistic process. How are her paintings produced? Then explain how Lin's art causes conflict in her personal life and in her relationship. At the end of the day, would Lin argue that her art is worth the trouble? Do you think Lin will continue her art in her new life? Why or why not? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

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This section contains 933 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample