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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 2 Mexican Masks.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why are a woman's instincts those of a species rather than her own?
(a) She must have instincts of the species in order to perpetuate the race.
(b) Her individual instincts are obliterated because of her proximity to the Divine.
(c) She is the incarnation of the life force, which itself is impersonal.
(d) As an inferior person, she does not have individual instincts.

2. 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?
(a) His neighbor is a pathetic version of himself.
(b) The glance could reveal his isolation.
(c) The glance could spark rage.
(d) His neighbor reveals the disillusioned character of Mexico.

3. According to Paz's argument, what is the source of the North American's irritation with the pachuco?
(a) He sees the pachuco as a mythical figure, and thus dangerous.
(b) He sees the pachuco as a threat to North American society.
(c) He sees the pachuco as an invader.
(d) He does not know how to relate to the pachuco.

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

5. What duality does the pachuco represent?
(a) A victim obsessed with revenge.
(b) A fiend whose trademark is hearty laughter.
(c) A clown whose purpose is terror.
(d) A saint deeply involved in scandal.

Short Answer Questions

1. In Paz's estimation, what vital word has the Mexican forgotten?

2. What does the pachuco represent in Paz's writing?

3. As explained in Chapter One, who are the pachucos?

4. In Paz's opinion, when is a person most likely to see himself as precious and unique?

5. How do Mexicans perceive an opening-up of one's self?

(see the answer key)

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