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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. Satisfied Blackthorne is not an enemy, what does Friar Dominga tell Blackthorne?

2. What prevents Rodrigues from breaking the seal on the thing he is delivering to Toranaga?

3. How does Blackthorne divert attention from Toranaga in the palanquin?

4. Why does Ishido Kazunari insult Toranaga?

5. How did the book Blackthorne looks for happen to be on the Erasmus?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is the conflict between Toranaga and Ishido presented as Ishido is introduced into the novel?

2. How close does Blackthorne come to being executed in Yedo after visiting Toranaga?

3. Why does Blackthorne not take Rodrigues up on the offer to copy his rutters?

4. How is tension presented in Toranaga's character after meeting Ishido?

5. What does Blackthorne tell Toranaga at their first meeting that puzzled him?

6. What sets up the conflict between Blackthorne and Omi that lasts for the remainder of the novel?

7. What does Blackthorne insist on as soon as he gets the galley into a safe harbor?

8. How is the Portuguese pilot, Rodrigues, introduced into the story?

9. Why does Yabu personally scale the cliffs to rescue Rodrigues?

10. What is the diversion that allows Toranaga, dressed as a woman, to change places with Kiri in the palanquin?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay of at least two typewritten, double spaced pages on the topic, Loyalty in SHÅŒGUN. Using Mariko as your example, show how the code of the samurai is complete loyalty to a Lord. When a mission fails or the samurai is prevented from doing his or her work, the honorable way out is seppuku. Conclude with the extent you think loyalty is important in your life today.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay of at least two typewritten, double spaced pages on the topic, Differences in Sexual Mores in Different Cultures. In your essay include the frank discussion of sex between Blackthorne, Kiku, and Mariko as opposed to conversational taboos in the West. Point two should discuss marital fidelity as when Mariko sleeps with Blackthorne though she is married to Buntaro. Conclude with comments about how the Japanese have fewer hangups over matters involving sex and nudity.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay of at least two typewritten, double spaced pages on the topic, Toranaga: the Villain I Love to Hate. Make at least three points on the devious actions of Toranaga and his selfishness throughout the novel. Conclude with a mixture of feelings about Toranaga's success that makes the novel come out in his favor at the end.

(see the answer keys)

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