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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does the narrator say he believes readers might think he is at the end of the book?
(a) A writer of classics.
(b) A dreamer.
(c) A jerk.
(d) A poet.

2. According to a critic, what does the narrator need in order to become a charming person?
(a) Better looks.
(b) Deeper thoughts.
(c) A better personality.
(d) Better writing skills.

3. How does the office boy travel?
(a) Through collected photos.
(b) He doesn't get to travel any more since he is now working.
(c) During his vacation week.
(d) Day trips on weekends.

4. How old is the author of The Book of Disquiet when he dies?
(a) 82.
(b) 99.
(c) 47.
(d) 35.

5. Who is described as being stoic?
(a) The narrator's brother.
(b) Soares.
(c) Valquez.
(d) The office boy.

Short Answer Questions

1. From what area does Omar Khayyám hail?

2. What instrument did a girl who lived above the narrator play when she lived in the building?

3. What lie does the narrator tell a clerk about his feelings about being alone?

4. In what year was The Book of Disquiet first published?

5. Why is the narrator sad to see the office boy quit?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does a critic tell Soares about his physical appearance?

2. What is the gift of the common folk, according to the narrator?

3. What does the narrator say about animal happiness? What is is reasoning?

4. Why does the narrator isolate himself, and how does it affect his sensitivity to worldly things?

5. According to the narrator, how does one become a man of action? What role do men of action play in society and why?

6. Of the five senses, which does the narrator say is the most important?

7. What are the narrator's thoughts on writing perfect literature? Which classic example does he analyze to make his point and what does he say about it?

8. According to the narrator, how should intelligent men view God?

9. What does the narrator say about tedium?

10. How does the narrator begin to view writing after the critic advises him about his physical appearance?

(see the answer keys)

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