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

2. Why does Stettin say the treasury is struggling?

3. What is Homir doing when he first sees Arcadia on the ship?

4. What information does Arcadia overhear Palver telling Momma?

5. How does Arcadia tell Palver her secret message?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Dr. Darell think that his daughter is dead?

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

3. How does Dr. Darell soothe Anthor's worries about Arcadia's disappearance?

4. What are Stettin's reasonings for going to war that he describes to Merius?

5. Why does Dr. Darrell consider the Second Foundation an enemy? What made him realize this?

6. Why is Dr. Darell caught in a no-win situation in 16-18?

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

8. In 10-12, how does Arcadia persuade Homir not to turn around to drop her off at home?

9. How does Callia convince Stettin to allow herself, Arcadia and Homir into the Mule's palace?

10. How does Arcadia convince Palver to go to the Foundation and deliver a message for her?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

By the end of the novel many preconceptions of the plot are turned around in revelations presented by the author. Respond to the following with supporting evidence from the book:

1) What is Asimov's purpose in having so many twist endings?

2) How does the twist ending of the downfall of the Mule differ from the ending of the book as a whole?

3) How do the twist endings serve to screen the inevitable triumph of the Second Foundation in the plot of the book?

Essay Topic 2

There are three female characters presented in "Second Foundation:" Arcadia, Callia and Momma. All of the characters have great influence in the plot of the novel. Please respond to the following with supporting evidence:

1) What way does Asimov portray the character of Arcadia?

2) What way does Asimov portray the character of Callia?

3) What way does Asimov portray the character of Momma?

4) Does the author imply that females have important roles in society alongside that of men?

Essay Topic 3

Isaac Asimov has had substantial influence in the modern world due to his widely known written works of both nonfiction and fiction. Please respond to the following with supporting facts:

1) How did Asimov's childhood influence his career choice?

2) How did Asimov's career as a science professor influence his choice to write science fiction?

3) What examples of Asimov's beliefs are evident in "Second Foundation"?

(see the answer keys)

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