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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. In Chapter, Bolotov is also at the party. What is the name of his wife?

2. Why does Pnin not use the detailed directions that were given to him to get to the cabin?

3. In Chapter 4, what is the nature of Victor and Pnin's conversation during dinner?

4. In Chapter 5, what do Pnin and the person he runs into before going on a swim talk about?

5. Who runs the school that Victor attends?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Liza decide to send Victor to school at St. Bartholomew's?

2. Who is Al Cook's wife and why do they not have children?

3. How do Dr. Wind and Liza feel about their son?

4. Why is Pnin somewhat sad after visiting with Betty Bliss?

5. What are a few examples of what the students at Waindell College do at the beginning of every year?

6. What does Victor Wind fantasize about during school?

7. What happens to Pnin while traveling to the cabin in Chapter 5?

8. Where is Pnin living in Chapter 6 and how does he feel about it?

9. Describe Victor's art teacher, Lake.

10. Who are some of the people that Pnin invites to his housewarming party in Chapter 6?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Analyze the character of Professor Timofey Pnin. Where is Pnin from and what is his first language? Is his character likable? Does one feel pity for his character? What is engaging about Pnin? What are his strengths and weaknesses?

Essay Topic 2

The author gives many details about Pnin's personality through description and with flashbacks. Analyze the use of flashbacks used in the novel "Pnin". How does the use of flashbacks help to develop the characters? Are the flashbacks used in "Pnin" important for the development of his character? Are flashbacks confusing or helpful?

Essay Topic 3

Analyze the character of Liza and her overall affect on Pnin's life. What kind of person is Liza? Did she truly ever love Pnin or was she always using him? Why can't Pnin see Liza for what she truly is? How does Pnin behave when he is around Liza? Is Liza a good influence on Pnin?

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