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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. From what planet is Dr. Darell?

2. Why does Dr. Darell refuse to go to Trantor?

3. Arcadia tells Callia that there are rumors about Kalgan becoming an empire, but the only possible way is for what to happen?

4. What does the note say that Poli gives Dr. Darell?

5. What form of message does Homir receive from Dr. Darell?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Callia do for Arcadia in her private chamber? What does Arcadia see as Callia flees the room?

2. In 16-18, what does Dr. Darell want from Seimic? What is Seimic's response?

3. Why do Merius and Stettin seek the help of Homir at the end of 10-12?

4. How does Arcadia escape from being discovered after she is announced as a wanted fugitive?

5. Why is the Imperial Library an important place to Arcadia?

6. What two orders does Stettin send out after Callia manipulates him into thinking he has a chance to start an empire?

7. How has Kalgan changed since the Mule's death?

8. Why is Arcadia so excited to meet Lady Callia?

9. What is Dr. Darell thinking about at the beginning of 16-18? Why does he decide to stay in his current course of action?

10. How does Poli know that Arcadia has disappeared in 10-12? What is Dr. Darell's reaction?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

It is difficult to define a standout hero or villain in "Second Foundation" because the author does not present such a figure to the reader. Please respond to the following with supporting evidence from the story:

1) What character is the most like a hero in the story? What happens at the end of the novel to make the reader think otherwise?

2) The Mule is presented to be a villain. His motivation to further the Seldon Plan is one of the few representations of a valid motive in the story. What is the author saying about societies' views on misunderstanding other people?

3) How is the Second Foundation simultaneously represented as a protagonist and antagonist in the book?

Essay Topic 2

The author emphasizes individuality through writing about characters' personal choices influencing the events of the book. Respond to the following with supporting references to examples in the novel:

1) How do several characters throughout the story display their own individuality? How does Channis? How does Palver?

2) The character of Pritcher has his mind controlled by the Mule - how does Asimov portray his individuality?

3) What issues in the novel repress individuality? Are these things presented in a positive or negative way?

Essay Topic 3

Arcadia Darell plays a pivotal role in the events of the novel, yet she is only a 14 year old girl. Please respond to the following with support from "Second Foundation."

1) What attributes does Asimov give Arcadia that represent adolescence in a positive way?

2) What attributes does Asimov give Arcadia that represent adolescence in a negative way?

3) What is Asimov saying about the ability of teenagers to influence society and their community as illustrated in the novel?

(see the answer keys)

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