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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In the sophisticated crowd, James Vayle seems
(a) Highly principled.
(b) Like a country boy.
(c) Silly and under-dressed.
(d) Young and innocent.

2. Helga's hidden feeling about her lack of family is
(a) Shame.
(b) Defiance.
(c) Indifference.
(d) Sadness.

3. Where does Helga encounter Robert Anderson again?
(a) At a health seminar at her employer's.
(b) At a local restaurant.
(c) At a health meeting in a church.
(d) At an insurance conference in Harlem.

4. The rejection Helga held earlier for America has turned to
(a) A hatred of Harlem.
(b) A repugnance of Negroes.
(c) A wish for more money.
(d) Homesickness.

5. Axel Olsen tells Helga that she has
(a) The determination of a white woman.
(b) The soul of a prostitute.
(c) The stubbornness of a mule.
(d) The grace of an African.

Short Answer Questions

1. Helga projects a sense of

2. In her lovely room at Naxos, Helga is

3. Helga now feels alienated from

4. How did Helga's mother lift herself out of her bad situation?

5. With his strange overtures toward her, Axel Olsen shows

Short Essay Questions

1. Is Helga feeling regret as she leaves Naxos? Why or why not? Is this a good move for her career? Is sh being responsible?

2. What exactly happens to Helga in Denmark? What is her social life like? Is she doomed to be unhappy again? Why?

3. Why does Helga feel free on the ship on her way to Denmark? Does being isolated in the middle of the ocean have any effect on her? If so, what?

4. Describe Helga's lifestyle as a teacher. Is it unusual? Why or why not?

5. What is the YWCA and why is Helga there? Is this a safe haven for her? Does it meet her high living standards?

6. Do we know why Helga loses interest in her present lifestyle? How would you assess Helga if you were her friend or counselor?

7. Is it clear whether Helga is liked by her peers or colleagues? If so, is it genuine? Is Helga a likable person?

8. Why does Helga return to Harlem? Discuss her newfound spiritual ties to the black population here. Is it the same connection she felt before? Why, or why not?

9. Devastated over losing what she secretly hoped would develop into an affair with Anderson, Helga's depression returns. Discuss the worship service that she happens upon, and its symbolism.

10. Why does Helga think Anne is almost perfect? Is Anne perfect? What does Helga even know about her at this point in the story?

(see the answer keys)

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