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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. When Sophie is in the Major's cabin, what reflects back at her from the mirror?

2. What is the Greeks' criticism of Nordic Gods?

3. Why is Baruch Spinoza excommunicated?

4. When do white envelopes arrive for Sophie?

5. Who are the Sophists?

Short Essay Questions

1. Socrates could have escaped death through exile, but refused. What does this act say about his character?

2. Why does Sophie decide to go into a stranger's cabin?

3. Sophie receives mail addressed to Hilde. Is she silly or foolish for opening this mail? Why?

4. Why would Sophie not go with Joanna after classes?

5. Epicureans believe in seeking pleasure and avoiding pain. Is this a theme of the novel? Why?

6. What kind of teacher is Alberto? Why?

7. Are the postcard that is addressed to Hilde, and Alberto's decision to teach Sophie in person, connected? Why?

8. Sophie recalls that time is different for the Major and HIlde, than for Sophie and Alberto. How would this exist?

9. What would be an example of Parmenides' beliefs in Sophie's life?

10. How are Hilde and the Major connected to Sophie, as known by Chapter 13? Why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How does Freud's dream analysis connect to Sophie and Alberto since they are in a dream?

Essay Topic 2

Often times, a novel's setting is crucial to the plot. Is that the case with "Sophie's World"? Could this story have taken place anywhere? Would all societies be open to learning about different philosophers? Examine if the setting plays a significant factor in the novel.

Essay Topic 3

As the story continues, Sophie and even Hilde recognize they are substitutes or symbols for each other.

1) Examine some of the similarities between the Sophie and Hilde, and between Alberto Knox and Albert Knag. Look at more than just the appearances by including their attitudes and thoughts.

2) Did the Major model Sophie after Hilde? Support your answer with evidence from the book.

(see the answer keys)

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