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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. What sport did Charlemagne play frequently and even put a sign in reference to in the convent?

2. What year is it when the novel opens?

3. Where do Elisa and Napoleon take Mireille?

4. What did Blanche write on the cocktail napkin she hands to Catherine?

5. Who is the father of Mireille's child?

Short Essay Questions

1. What encounter does Philidor relate to David and what happened during the encounter?

2. Why does Catherine Velis believe that she is being sent to Algeria by her accounting firm?

3. What does David believe is the only thing that will be able to save France and from what does he believe France needs to be saved?

4. What surprise does Mireille find out about herself on the journey to Corsica?

5. Why do Valentine and Mireille leave their place of safety to meet Sister Claude and what happens when they get to the appointed meeting place?

6. Who saves Mirielle from Paris and what connection does Mirielle find out about them and her past?

7. What work does Kamel want Catherine to complete for him which surprises Catherine and catches her off guard?

8. How does the Abbess make it impossible for any one person to reveal the details of her plan to ensure the safety of the pieces of the chess set?

9. What conclusion does Mordecai draw after hearing Lily and Catherine describe the story of the chauffeur?

10. What explanation does the Bishop give for his slight limp after Valentine and Mireille question him about it and the rumors they have heard about it?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay about the theme of destiny as it is explored throughout the novel. Is this theme realistic? Why or why not? Do you believe that humanity cannot escape what is ordained for them? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

The author often intertwines fact and fiction throughout the novel. Write an essay describing two examples of this technique where factual information about historical characters is intertwined with fictional information created by the author. Does this technique have a possible thematic resonance? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

At what point in the novel does the author appear to make the shift from subconscious, spiritual destiny to outward, physical reality? Why do you think the author makes this shift? Do you believe the shift is successful? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 728 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample