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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through The Day of the Dead.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Through dissimulation, what does a Mexican attempt to do?
(a) Share his individuality with others to make it real.
(b) Withdraw from society to save his individuality.
(c) Become himself in contradistinction to others.
(d) Become invisible and save his individuality.

2. In the book's argument, what happens when a Mexican woman is passive?
(a) She functions as a channel of the ancient elements: Earth, motherhood, and virginity.
(b) She embodies the ancient elements of earth, motherhood, and virginity.
(c) She can no longer relate to the man.
(d) She comes to believe in the societal values given her.

3. Why does a Mexican blend into his surroundings and become solely Appearance?
(a) He fears human interaction.
(b) He loves appearance.
(c) He wants to end his individuality.
(d) He fears appearances.

4. As Paz uderstands it, what is the Mexican's relation to death?
(a) Sacrificial.
(b) Intimate but empty.
(c) Emotionally remote.
(d) Intimate and heartbreaking.

5. According to Paz, what does it mean when a person is alone?
(a) He is different.
(b) He is inferior.
(c) He is superior.
(d) He can never relate to other people.

Short Answer Questions

1. In contrast to the North American, what is one of the most noticeable traits about the Mexican character?

2. Aside from being an excess, what does the fiesta revolt against?

3. Why is death a part of the fiesta (Chapter Three)?

4. According to Paz, what is the Mexican's relationship with his fellow man?

5. As Paz begins Chapter Two, he says that the Mexican is always afraid to glance at his neighbor. What reason does he give for that?

(see the answer key)

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