View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What striking feature has the Safflower Princess managed to keep over the years?

2. Why does Princess Asagao turn Genji down?

3. What happens to Aoi shortly after she gives birth to her son?

4. What does Genji send to the Safflower Princess after his visit in Chapter 23?

5. To whom does Yugiri send a love letter in Chapter 21?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is it strange that Yugiri has tried to seduce the Second Princess?

2. How does Genji rationalize the storm in Chapter 13?

3. Who won the art contest held between Genji and To no Chujo? What did the court favor about the winner's style?

4. Why is Tamakazura to be under Genji's care, rather than To no Chujo?

5. Why is Kashiwagi jealous of the marriage between Genji and the Third Princess?

6. How does Oigimi hurt Kaoru?

7. Explain the situation after the body of Ukifune was found.

8. What does Niou learn about Ukifune that leads him to be distraught? Explain.

9. Why does Genji wish to keep secrets involving Yugao's death?

10. Describe the "masterpieces" Genji works on in Chapter 32.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

After Genji's death, Kaoru becomes the main character of focus. How does Kaoru's character parallel Genji's character?

Essay Topic 2

Throughout the novel To no Chujo is in constant competition with Genji. Analyze and describe the internal conflict that To no Chujo may be feeling. Be sure to cite specific instances from the novel to support your thesis.

Essay Topic 3

Genji was very lucky with women as was Niou. Kaoru and Yugiri were not so lucky with women. Given these facts what is the novel suggesting what women want in a man? Do you believe Genji and Niou are much better men than Kaoru and Yugiri? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 796 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample