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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 makes up the puzzling Problema del Mezzogiorno?

2. All Italians share similar physical characteristics and methods for managing life, but there is a difference between the two geographical regions which has done what?

3. Where do consolation, help, advice, provisions, loans, weapons, allies and accomplices lie?

4. The heads of Mafia organizations are usually _____________________ with impeccable manners and ingratiating charm which do not belie the cruelty underneath.

5. What are Sicilians able to avoid?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is Guicciardini a role model?

2. Who is Francesco Guicciardini?

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

4. How are matters complicated?

5. Describe the organization of Italian groups.

6. What do most Italians think of contemporary capitalism?

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

8. What is meant by mafioso?

9. What do most Italians think of free expression?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Battle of Fornovo was very humiliating.

Part 1) What is the Battle of Fornovo? Why was it humiliating?

Part 2) How did the outcome of this battle affect Italians and their culture?

Part 3) How do the results of this battle still affect Italians today?

Essay Topic 2

There is irony regarding the Italian illusions.

Part 1) What are the Italian illusions discussed in this book? What is ironic about these?

Part 2) Does this sort of illusion exist elsewhere in the world? If so, where? How? If not, why not?

Part 3) Why are Italians and others drawn so strongly to these illusions?

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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