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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. What does Rodrigues think Inoue is doing as a tactic?

2. What new town does Rodrigues travel to in this chapter?

3. Where are the objects brought in from?

4. Who is chased off by the guards in this chapter?

5. What usually precedes the final procession?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Rodrigues' meeting with the five samurai.

2. Why is Rodrigues transported in a covered caravan?

3. From what does the snoring sound come?

4. What do Ferreria and Rodrigues talk about in Chapter 7?

5. What is Yokose-no-Ura?

6. What routine does Rodrigues settle into in Chapter 6?

7. How can Rodriguez's actions in Chapter 5 be deemed as wrong?

8. How does the interpreter treat Rodrigues now that he is employed by the magistrate?

9. What do Rodrigues and Inoue discuss in Chapter 7?

10. Describe the reappearance of Kichijiro in Chapter 6.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Look at the structure of the novel.

1) How does Endo use character and dialogue to drive the narrative?

2) Discuss elements of the narrative structure: exposition, conflict, complication, climax, resolution and conclusion. Do all the elements make for a logical and linear story? How does the story's structure express the novel's themes?

3) Aside from the main character, Rodrigues, examine the way Endo uses the other characters in the story. When does he introduce and take them away from the story? What effect does it have on the story?

Essay Topic 2

Look at the novel's characterization. How well drawn do you think Endo's characters are? Select one of the minor characters such as Ferreira and discuss how much you know about his background. In what ways does Endo provide the reader with information about that character?

Essay Topic 3

Examine the history of Christianity in Japan.

1) Who brought Christianity into Japan and how did the Japanese initially react to the religion?

2) Why were Christians persecuted in the 17th century?

3) What role does Christianity play in modern day Japan?

(see the answer keys)

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