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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why are Sandoz and Claude depressed after visiting Dubuche in the country?

2. Why is Christine afraid when she wakes to find Claude not in the bed with her?

3. To stay close to Claude and fight her rival, the painting, what does Christine decide to do?

4. What painting is almost rejected before it is discovered to be one by a famous artist?

5. Who generally shows up on varnishing day?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay of at least two typed, double-spaced pages on the topic, The Past Cannot Be Recaptured. Using the things Claude and Sandoz see in the country, the essay should explain Zola's statement, "The past was but the cemetery of our illusions: one simply stubbed one's toes on the gravestones."

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay of at least two typed, double-spaced pages on the topic of The Decadent Bourgeois. The essay should center on Margaillan and include (1) his ill-gotten wealth, (2) his conspicuous spending, and (3) his disrespectful manner while viewing Claude's painting at the Salon des Refusés.

Essay Topic 3

Write a critique of the novel. Discuss Zola's style and use of language, giving specific examples. Include the autobiographical nature of Sandoz as Zola himself. Express how you feel about the suspense of the novel and whether it makes you not want to put it down. Conclude with your recommendation for others to read THE MASTERPIECE.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 371 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample