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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. When does Nabokov begin to write poetry?

2. What puts Nabokov at odds with many of his colleagues?

3. Who does Nabokov meet at the age of sixteen?

4. What types of tutors does Nabokov's father seem to intentionally choose?

5. How does Nabokov describe the poet?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Nabokov's family is exiled from Russia.

Part 1) Why?

Part 2) How is Nabokov's life is Western Europe?

Part 3) Although, Nabokov says his anger towards the Bolsheviks is due to his loss of country, how might his loss of wealth and status affect him?

Essay Topic 2

There is a great gulf between classes in early-twentieth century Russia.

Part 1) What evidence from the text proves this statement.

Part 2) How does this separation of classes affect Russia?

Part 3) How might Nabokov's experiences have changed once he emigrates to Western Europe, and finally to the United States? How mighthe feel about these changes?

Essay Topic 3

Nabokov spends his summer vacations in Biarritz, France.

Part 1) Describe Biarritz.

Part 2) How does Nabokov's family spend its time here?

Part 3) What is the author's purpose for including this information in the book?

(see the answer keys)

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