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

Short Answer Questions

1. Where does Stepan Verkhovensky set off for after the fête?

2. Who does Peter allow into the fête?

3. Why do the townspeople think the Lebyatkins were killed?

4. What does Shatov ask Kirilov for after he discovers that his wife is pregnant?

5. Why is Peter intent on killing Shatov?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

What role does innocence play in The Possessed? Is it always sacrificed, as Mary Lebyatkin and Shatov are? Does it endure anywhere, in spite of Mary and Shatov's murders?

Essay Topic 2

What does Russianness consist of in The Possessed? Who possesses it? Who defends it? Who attacks it?

Essay Topic 3

What kinds of violence are depicted in The Possessed? Are there different rules and expectations for each kind of violence? Are some kinds of violence more effective in resolving problems than others? Is violence ever a useful tool in The Possessed, or is it always merely destructive?

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This section contains 264 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample