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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. What disturbs Helga about her conversation with Dr. Anderson?
(a) She wanted to stay.
(b) She is ashamed of herself for resigning.
(c) She feels she told half-truths.
(d) She feels she confided too much to him.

2. Katrina would like Helga to
(a) Make more friends.
(b) Be attracted to Axel Olsen.
(c) Stay with her forever.
(d) Be less flambouyant.

3. In a letter, Anne asks Helga to
(a) Forget about Dr. Anderson.
(b) Not be mad at her.
(c) Forget her past in Harlem.
(d) Attend her wedding to Dr. Anderson.

4. Peter's wife told Helga her presence was not
(a) Acceptable.
(b) Convenient.
(c) Appropriate.
(d) Surprising.

5. Helga tells her story to Mrs. Hayes-Rore who
(a) Admonishes her for sharing.
(b) Feels only sympathy for her.
(c) Reacts with anger toward her.
(d) Seems to withdraw from her.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where does Helga encounter Robert Anderson again?

2. Helga projects a sense of

3. It occurs to Helga that perhaps her new uncle

4. Why does her uncle's wife reject Helga?

5. Anne's feelings about racism cause her to

Short Essay Questions

1. What was it about Helga's past that was so unhappy? Is her unhappiness justified? Why, or why not?

2. What is Helga's reasoning for not wanting children? Is this just a defense mechanism on her part? Why, or why not?

3. How does Larsen tell us that Helga is irreparably damaged from her childhood? Helga does not complain much - how do we know that she carries old wounds?

4. Dr. Anderson has almost talked Helga into staying at Naxos. What triggers her rage, and why?

5. What is it that disturbs Helga about Naxos' methods of educating children? Are her feelings justified?

6. Why does Helga's lack of references hurt her job search? Why does she have no references?

7. 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?

8. What surprises does Katrina's character bring in the story? Does she provide a safe haven or a sense of family for Helga? Why, or why not?

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

10. Discuss Helga's "maladjustment" at Naxos. Is it about the school, or is it about Helga, or both?

(see the answer keys)

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