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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. When Nella compares Assendelft with Amsterdam, what does she decide is the only thing she can currently call her own?

2. How does Nella locate the miniaturist who becomes a major and enigmatic part of the narrative?

3. How does Nella come to own the cabinet house?

4. What event is taking place during the novel's prologue?

5. What instrument does Nella play during the performance for the Meermanses?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the character of Agnes Meerman.

2. How do Marin's and Nella's views of Nella's situation in the Brandt household differ?

3. How does Marin hurt Nella physically and why?

4. For what reason does Marin always insist on taking the Brandt household's dogs to church?

5. What is the first disagreement between Nella and Marin, and who wins it?

6. What does Nella mean when she opines that "home is nowhere" (114) for her now?

7. What is Johannes's reply when Nella asks him whether they are rich?

8. What is the significance of Nella's lute performance during the Meermans' visit?

9. For what reason does Nella decide to visit Johannes at his work?

10. How does Nella feel when Marin reveals that she has known all along that her brother Johannes is gay?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What is the function of Marin's character within the novel? Discuss the characterization methods used by the author in depicting Marin and include in your discussion the reasons that the author portrays her in these particular ways.

Essay Topic 2

What is the author's message regarding motherhood and femininity and what themes does the author employ in order to send these messages to the reader?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the author's messages about guilt and responsibility within the novel The Miniaturist.

(see the answer keys)

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