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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 suggests a complex plan of action to bring a satisfactory end to the whole affair over which Yu-cun is presiding?

2. Who forms deeps friendship with Darling and Precious?

3. Of whom does Bao-yu dream?

4. What is the name of the summit at which the goddess leaves the extra stone?

5. Where is Dai-yu to reside?

Short Essay Questions

1. Hypothesize over the influence Bao-yu's father has on him despite his consistently disapproving attitude towards Bao-yu.

2. What can be understood from the events surrounding the situation at the school in regard to other school children making fun of the boys of the Jia clan?

3. Why does Vanitas change his name to Brother Amor?

4. In what way does Dai-yu express her jealousy and somewhat obsessive attitude towards Bao-yu in the beginning of Chapter 9?

5. What can be understood from Chinese diplomatic culture when considering Bao-yu's meeting with Prince Qinzhong?

6. Despite his limited presence, what becomes clear about Bao-yu during the first few episodes that involve him?

7. What thematic devices can be drawn from Bao-yu's relationship with women both during his dream and afterward?

8. In what ways are fear of shame and being poor seen in Chapter 6?

9. How does superstition appear in the events surrounding Jia Rui?

10. Explain the symbol of Greensickness Peak in relation to the rest of the novel.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Destiny and predestination is a central theme throughout the novel. What narrative devices does the author utilize to maintain the reader's interest in this idea through an atmosphere of inevitability that pervades the novel's subtext?

Essay Topic 2

Explore the ways the author uses characters' names as a medium by which to say something about their personalities or character.

Essay Topic 3

How does the author use the setting of the Prospect Garden as a key location in the novel?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,094 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample