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

Short Answer Questions

1. What happens to Emilia in prison?

2. What is awaiting Marco when he returns to Montevideo?

3. What position does Magda take with the USIS?

4. What is the plan for the Tupas' next target?

5. After Marco helps her escape, where is Magda taken?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

A recurring symbol in this novel is stars. Write an essay explaining the author's use of stars and how it relates to the overall story. Be sure to develop a strong thesis statement and cite specific examples from the the text to support the thesis. Be sure to consider the poinsettia tree, the estrella federal, and even the star on the communist flag. Explore how this relates to the government and to the characters.

Essay Topic 2

This novel draws a lot of inspiration from true events and even brings in historical characters. Discuss the use of historical characters in this novel (Geoffrey Jackson, Dan Mitrione and Che Guevara). What do these real-life men add to the fictional novel? Does it seem likely that Magda would be involved with each one of them? Why or why not? What is the author's reasoning in drawing in real-life people to a fictional story? Cite specific examples from the text.

Essay Topic 3

While in America, Magda is surprised to discover that her American sister, Janet, is very trusting and passive of her government. Write an essay on the following parts:

Part 1) Compare and contrast Magda's experiences with the Uruguayan government and her thoughts on the American government with Janet's beliefs.

Part 2) Analyze how each girl feels about the other's beliefs.

Part 3) Discuss what happens that changes Janet's mind about trusting the government completely.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 344 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample