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

Short Answer Questions

1. What encouraging phone call does Machiavelli receive?

2. What does King Gilgamesh believe about Sophie?

3. What does Machiavelli receive from John Dee?

4. What does Cernunnos send?

5. What does Machiavelli do despite Dee asking him not to?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Sorceress is one book in a series of novels involving Nicholas and the twins. Discuss the following.

1. What are a couple advantages of writing a series of novels about the same characters? Use examples.

2. What are a couple disadvantages of writing a series of novels about the same characters? Use examples.

3. Do you prefer to read a standalone book, or a series of books with the same main characters? Explain your response.

4. Do you think it is easier or more difficult (or about the same) to write a standalone book versus one in a series? Explain your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the following:

1. What is a plot? What are the most important elements of a plot and their definition? Do all novels have a plot? Why or why not?

2. Write a brief synopsis of the plot of The Sorceress, identifying where the various elements of the plot occur (Exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, resolution or denouement). Do you find it difficult to identify the plot? Why or why not? What about the various elements of the plot?

3. Identify the major sub-plots and their elements in The Sorceress. (The subplots may not contain every element of a major plot). Do the sub-plots add to the main plot? Why or why not? Are the sub-plots interesting in and of themselves? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Nicholas Flamel is in some ways a larger-than-life hero. Despite incredible odds, he usually comes out on top, in this book and in the others in the series. Discuss the following:

1. Does having a larger-than-life hero make that person less of a hero? In other words, which is more admirable--a hero who ultimately always "lands on his feet," or one who strives against impossible odds and doesn't succeed?

2. Does a character have to be successful in order to be a hero? Explain your answer.

3. Choose one other character besides Rand whom you might call a hero/heroine and explain why you chose that person.

4. Does every work of fiction need a hero? Explain your answer.

(see the answer keys)

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