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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. According to Paz, why does the liar tell lies to himself?
(a) He is afraid of himself.
(b) He is afraid of the world.
(c) He is afraid of finding truth in other people.
(d) He does not know the truth.

2. Paz discusses the result of persecution on the pachuco. What is that result?
(a) It strengthens his anger.
(b) It breaks his solitude.
(c) It makes him distrustful.
(d) It makes him stronger.

3. Why do Mexicans tell lies (Chapter Two)?
(a) To create confusion.
(b) To protect the other person.
(c) Merely for the enjoyment of it.
(d) To hide themselves.

4. What is the French sociologists' interpretation of the fiesta?
(a) The people's disregard for death increases their sense of life.
(b) The people's squandering of money appeases the gods.
(c) The people's disregard for obligations enhances their sense of time.
(d) The people's misunderstanding of life increases their desire for death.

5. Why are people sad if a person dies badly (Chapter Three)?
(a) There is no honor in an untoward death.
(b) The death should reflect the life.
(c) There will be no rest for his soul.
(d) The life is less important than the death.

Short Answer Questions

1. From what does a fiesta free the Mexican, in Paz's understanding?

2. In Paz's thought, what does a study of the great myths reveal?

3. When Paz first arrived in the United States, what surprised him most about the people?

4. Other than solitude, what does the Mexican often feel in relation to other peoples?

5. What is the advantage of the North American view of women in relation to the Spanish view?

(see the answer key)

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