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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. What is stolen from William?

2. Where is Adso from originally?

3. What is the form of the library?

4. What surprises the Cellarer in ‘First Day’?

5. Where do William and Adso go to investigate in ‘Second Day’?

Short Essay Questions

1. What two things disappear from Venantius’s desk in ‘Second Day’?

2. When does Adso write his manuscript?

3. Who is the Pope at the time of the events in the novel?

4. Why is Adso allowed to sit away from the novices in ‘First Day’?

5. What does Berengar think he saw in ‘Second Day’?

6. Why is Jorge so unnerving?

7. How does Adso feel about ‘modern’ life?

8. Where did Adso meet William?

9. How did Venantius die?

10. Who, in ‘Second Day,’ reveals that the library is a labyrinth?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Stories of journeys can often be read metaphorically, as stories of personal growth. What is the significance of Adso’s youth, particularly in comparison with other characters? How does he develop? In what ways is he similar to the other novices, and in what ways is he different from them? Does he desire to change, or does this happen against his will? How is he different when he writes the book from when the events took place?

Essay Topic 2

The monks debate the role of women at great length. What are the different attitudes towards women? Does Adso agree with these views? Discuss his views in tandem with his encounter with the young girl in the kitchen.

Essay Topic 3

Many people are suspected of murder in the book – and many of these suspects die. Compare and contrast the possible murderers and theories that the story presents, and describe the ultimate outcome, as well as Jorge’s professed motives.

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This section contains 458 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample