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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. How does Kaname say he feels about Misako going to Aso?

2. What does O-hisa need Misako's father to help her with in Chapter 10?

3. Why are Western-style buildings being put up in some areas of Japan?

4. What does Kaname do when he cannot fall asleep in Chapter 9?

5. After meeting Aso, what change did Kaname eventually notice in Misako?

Short Essay Questions

1. What memory does Kaname recall as he is listening to the samisen music? Why does he think this memory is significant?

2. At the end of Chapter 12, what makes Kaname think it is unacceptable for him to stay with Misako?

3. What popular tradition among stylish gentlemen is explained in Chapter 9?

4. What establishment does Kaname go to when he reaches Kobe? Why does Kaname like to go to this place?

5. When does the hotel manager suggest Misako's father and his party should attend the theater? When does Misako's father want to go?

6. What does Kaname think about as he tries to fall asleep in Chapter 9?

7. In Chapter 13, what does Kaname find out from the letter from Takanatsu?

8. In Chapter 8, what does Kaname recall about the early stages of his marriage's breakdown?

9. In Chapter 8, what does Takanatsu say will prevent Kaname and Misako from ever divorcing? .

10. Where does Kaname note Western-style buildings are erected in Japan?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss Tanizaki's use of contrast in the novel "Some Prefer Nettles." What are some examples of contrast? How do these examples relate to the themes of the novel?

Essay Topic 2

Analyze and interpret the relationship between Misako and Aso. How did they meet? What does Misako think of Aso? What does Aso think of Misako? What does Kaname think of Aso? What is the status of Misako and Aso's relationship by the end of the novel? Will they marry? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the motif of dolls in the novel "Some Prefer Nettles." What are some examples of dolls in the novel? What comparison does Kaname make between the dolls and his real life?

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