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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. The Northerners believe that what is the way to achieve their goals?

2. The actions of Northerners move them_________ their goals through better jobs.

3. The people of this island are extremely ________________.

4. What is one use of the term mafioso?

5. There are visible signs of material advantages in the North, but there is always the danger of what?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the Baroque period in Italy.

2. What is the main source of power for Italians? Describe this power.

3. What have the Italians learned is their best defense against problems?

4. How do the actions of the Northerners affect the achievement of their goals? How do the beliefs of the Southerners contrast this?

5. At first glance, how does Italy appear?

6. Describe Sicily.

7. What are the two major rules that must be followed to survive in Italian society?

8. What is hidden under the facade that most foreigners know as Italy?

9. What is the fundamental reason for why the South will not narrow the gap between itself and the North?

10. In Sicily, how is each man's rank determined?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

A contemporary of Casanova's was Giuseppe Balsamo.

Part 1) Who was Giuseppe Balsamo? For what is he famous?

Part 2) Why is this story included in this book?

Part 3) How does Balsamo compare to other Italians of his day? How does this affect one's view of Italy?

Essay Topic 2

Benito Mussolini was head of the Fascist party.

Part 1) Describe Mussolini's life. How is he an example of Italian showmanship gone wrong?

Part 2) Was Mussolini ultimately a success or failure? Why?

Part 3) What was important to Mussolini and others like him? Why was this important? What does this reinforce regarding Italian life?

Essay Topic 3

The family is the main source of power in Italy.

Part 1) Describe an Italian family. How is it powerful? Why is it the main source of power?

Part 2) How does the familial power affect relationships outside of the family? Why?

Part 3) How does this power affect society in Italy as a whole? Why?

(see the answer keys)

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