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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. Who tells the painter about Alessandra's pregnancy?

2. Why do Alessandra's servants feel compassion for her when she is pregnant?

3. In Chapter 24, what does Alessandra notice about the clothing worn by the people in Florence?

4. Who does Alessandra have assist her with the fresco in the convent's chapel?

5. In Chapter 21, why does Alessandra begin spending time in Cristoforo's library?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Cristoforo react to Tomaso and the painter being arrested?

2. What does Alessandra do when she begins to go into labor?

3. In Chapter 25, why does Alessandra ask her mother about her engagement?

4. How does Alessandra's pregnancy change her relationship with the servants?

5. How do the French affect Alessandra's life in Chapter 20?

6. What makes Alessandra's life in the convent less pleasing to her?

7. Why does the painter come to visit Alessandra in Chapter 21?

8. Why is the painter arrested?

9. What is Alessandra's life like when the painter is at the convent?

10. What does Savonarola preach about when he won't let women in the church?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How does the author use high art to mirror politics in this novel?

Essay Topic 2

Trace Alessandra's relationship with the painter throughout this novel. How is this relationship affected by outside forces? How is it shaped by inside forces? Which do you think are most powerful?

Essay Topic 3

What is the author's commentary on parenthood? Examine the different styles of parenting and what message is attached to each.

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