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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What has been the focus of don Juan's existence?
(a) Short-lived joys.
(b) Self-actualization.
(c) Avoiding conflict.
(d) Absurd escapades.

2. Who is the hero of Metamorphosis?
(a) Samsa.
(b) Samson.
(c) Michael K.
(d) Joseph K.

3. What kind of thought is involved in the absurd?
(a) Lateral.
(b) Creative.
(c) Contradictory.
(d) Rational.

4. How does Camus summarize the actor's art?
(a) As the ability to simulate absolutely.
(b) As an absurd illusion.
(c) As the ability to represent faithfully.
(d) As dangerous counterfeit.

5. What is important about an actor's fame?
(a) The problem of paparazzi.
(b) Its illusory nature.
(c) Ultimately it brings displeasure.
(d) Its fleeting nature.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why is it necessary to read a Kafka work twice?

2. How are myths given life?

3. What is indicated when melancholy arises in the human heart?

4. How is Oedipus' fate announced?

5. Who believed that 'to kill God is to become god oneself'?

Short Essay Questions

1. According to the quotation from Nietzsche, what vital function is performed by art?

2. What technique of Kafka's does Camus posit as the reason for the unity in that writer's work?

3. In mentioning the Diary (p. 100 of the Penguin edition), to what does Camus draw attention?

4. In an absurd universe, are all actions permitted?

5. What does Camus say is tiresome about the human heart (p. 115 of the Penguin edition)?

6. Why does Camus wonder if an absurd work of art is truly possible?

7. How does Camus describe the Church's treatment of heretics?

8. What is The Trial about?

9. How does Camus account for the promiscuity of don Juan?

10. What is absurd man and how can he deal with his predicament?

(see the answer keys)

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