View a FREE sample

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

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Rica call those who mind everyone's business but their own?

2. What happens to the woman killed by her husband in the story in letter 135?

3. What does Usbek think the law is for in a monarchy?

4. What are the topics of letters 87 and 88?

5. What does Rica consider himself to be a good example of?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Persian Letters, the setting is often changing or shifting between the seraglio and locations to which Usbek's group is traveling. Examine the role of the setting and analyze how Montesquieu uses setting to enhance the story line. Students should use the book to support their discussion.

Essay Topic 2

The Persian Letters uses satire to describe the travels of two Persian brothers, Usbek and Rica. In an essay, define satire and examine Montesquieu's use of satire in the novel and discuss how it benefits the story and character development.

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 287 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample