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

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Usbek, what choice do the tax laws leave men to choose between?

2. Which one of Usbek's wives behaves as she should be according to letter 143?

3. What does the woman killed by her husband in the story in letter 135 do to her husband as retribution?

4. Why does the man in Usbek's story in letter 98 claim to always be right?

5. What are the moral reasons for the dwindling population according to Usbek?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Persian Letters examines the difference between Persians and western Europeans regarding courting and marital relations. In an essay, examine the differences and similarities between the two cultures and discuss the potential ramifications, such as cultural expectations. Use examples from the book to support your discussion.

Essay Topic 2

In Persian Letters, Montesquieu examines the importance of ritual and the pacification of the gods. In an essay, discuss what rituals may be intended to pacify the gods and why they are important to Muslims or those in other religions. Students should use quotes from the book and a secondary source to support their discussion and make sure they define ritual in their essay.

Essay Topic 3

Montesquieu uses personification in his description of justice. In an essay, define personification and analyze why Montesquieu uses personification to write about justice. Students should use examples from the book to support their discussion.

(see the answer keys)

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