View a FREE sample

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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In "Wind Instruments" what instrument did Shonagon say was charming for a man to carry when he went out on horseback or on foot?
(a) Zither.
(b) Drum.
(c) Flageolet.
(d) Flute.

2. What kind of woman did Shonagon say she couldn't understand anyone loving?
(a) Stupid.
(b) Selfish.
(c) Ugly.
(d) Shy.

3. Where did the Empress live after the Chancellor's death?
(a) Seiryo Palace.
(b) The Smaller Palace of the Second Ward.
(c) The Emperor's quarters.
(d) The Imperial Palace.

4. Which of these did Shonagon say gave an clean feeling?
(a) The containers used for oil.
(b) A rush mat.
(c) A soft breeze.
(d) Little sparrows.

5. Where did the wood for the batons for the new Chamberlains of the Sixth Rank come from?
(a) The south-east corner of the Empress's Office.
(b) The Chamberlains cut it themselves.
(c) The woods surrounding the Palace.
(d) An abandoned house.

Short Answer Questions

1. What object did the men thrust under the blind in "On a Dark, Moonless Night in the Fifth Month?"

2. Who did Shonagon say it was pleasant for a court lady on leave to visit?

3. What temple did the Chancellor order the Dedication of the Full Canon to take place in?

4. How many attendants helped the Shigei Sha with her ablutions?

5. When Shonagon first went into waiting, what was the only time of day she wanted to go before the Empress?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why did Shonagon say festivals held near the palace were distant but near?

2. Why was Shonagon happy to receive a note from a man that read "the rain that swells the water?"

3. Why did the Empress think Shonagon was lying when she insisted she was fond of the Empress during her early days as a courtier?

4. Why was Shonagon moved to tears upon witnessing the Emperor paying his respects to the Empress Dowager?

5. Why did Shonagon want to change places with the woman she met on her way up the hill to the Upper Shrine?

6. Why did Shonagon think it was important to keep ones inkstone and writing utensil in good condition?

7. Why did the priest tell the women to keep talking all night after overhearing their conversation about where the wood for the Chamberlains' batons come from and talking about the names of clothing?

8. Why did Shonagon say that no one pays attention to a Palace Chaplain when he walks by?

9. Why was Shonagon concerned about having to write the opening lines to a few lines of poetry she received when Kinto was present?

10. Why did Shonagon spend a long time at home after the Chancellor's death?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 881 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample