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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. Ludvik, as the woman giving him a shave soaps his face, slips into what?
(a) A fantasy.
(b) A conversation.
(c) A nap.
(d) A lie.

2. Why was Ludvik summoned the day after he returned to his post at University in his third year?
(a) A promotion because of his innovations.
(b) A promotion because of his loyalty.
(c) An inquiry about the quality of his work.
(d) An inquiry about the postcard he sent Marketa.

3. How does Ludvik feel about the differences between himself and Kostka?
(a) Ludvik gets very angry with Kostka.
(b) Ludvik really dislikes Kostka.
(c) Ludvik hates to argue with Kostka.
(d) Their differences endear Kostka to Ludvik.

4. What is the name of the narrator's hometown?
(a) Moravia.
(b) Bratislava.
(c) Brno.
(d) Prague.

5. Ludvik asks Kostka for a recommendation for what service?
(a) A shave.
(b) A store that sells liquor.
(c) A decent dinner.
(d) Entertainment for the evening.

Short Answer Questions

1. How did Helena meet Ludvik?

2. What does Helena's co-workers say about her at work?

3. What does the narrator do at the beginning of part three?

4. Who is the narrator of the part two?

5. What is the name of the narrator of the first section of the novel?

Short Essay Questions

1. After their second meeting, Ludvik tells Helena that he is going to pick her up in front of the station the following day. What did they do on this outing?

2. How does Ludvik take the first part of his shave?

3. What were the early days of Helena and Zemanek's relationship like?

4. What is Kostka's living situation?

5. What was Helena's first meeting with Ludvik like, according to Helena?

6. How is Ludvik received by the dark Slovak NCO who got a first at marksmanship?

7. Why did Ludvik send Marketa the postcard?

8. How is Ludvik's attitude immediately following his move to Ostrava?

9. Why does Ludvik feel frustrated when he leaves the barber for his shave?

10. Describe the circumstances under which Helena fell in love with Zemanek.

(see the answer keys)

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