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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. Where does Pnin take Victor after picking him up from the train station?

2. Who arrives early to the housewarming party to assist Pnin with the preparations?

3. At the party in Chapter 5, what do the guests have for dinner?

4. What is one of the chief attractions of the party at the cabin?

5. In Chapter 6, how is Pnin feeling about his lack of students this semester?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Pnin give to Victor during their first meeting?

2. Where is the cabin located that Pnin is headed to at beginning of Chapter 5, and why is he going there?

3. What has happened with Dr. Eric Wind and Liza in Chapter 4?

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

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

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

7. Describe the character of Victor.

8. Describe Victor's art teacher, Lake.

9. What does Hagen tell Pnin before he leaves the party?

10. Who is the artist that Pnin meets while going for a swim in the lake, and what does Pnin wish after meeting him?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

One of the prevailing themes in "Pnin" is the life of an immigrant. Explore the theme of Pnin's life as an immigrant and the prejudices that he encounters.

Part 1) What does being an immigrant mean?

Part 2) What are some examples of prejudices in the novel?

Part 3) Is Pnin aware of the prejudices he encounters?

Essay Topic 2

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 3

One theme in the novel "Pnin" is his strict adherence to his daily routine. Examine the theme of routine in Pnin's life exploring how it affects the overall novel. What does Pnin do every day? What does Pnin's precise routine say about his character and personality? How does Pnin's daily routine affect the overall tone of the novel?

(see the answer keys)

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