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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. How old is the Kloterjahns' son?

2. What kind of book did the writer write?

3. Where does Mrs. Kloterjahn sit most days?

4. Who is the second character introduced?

5. What is Mrs. Kloterjahn’s ailment described as?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why has one of the other patients nicknamed Mr. Spinell the “Rotten Infant”?

2. When is Mr. Spinell sociable?

3. What are some of the activities that the patients occupy themselves with?

4. Why are specific cases in particular Dr. Muller’s responsibility?

5. Why does Gabriele Kloterjahn’s inspect her handkerchief after she clears her throat?

6. Why doesn’t Dr. Leander consult with Dr. Muller on Gabriele’s case?

7. What happens when a patient dies?

8. Of what is Mr. Kloterjahn a connoisseur?

9. What is the one imperfection in Gabriele Kloterjahn’s face?

10. Why is Mr. Kloterjahn grateful that his wife’s condition does not stem from the lungs?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Mann uses the third person omniscient perspective in Tristan. What does this point of view add stylistically and thematically to the novella? How would the novella be changed if the perspective were changed?

Essay Topic 2

At Einfried, most of the patients are tubercular. What significance does tuberculosis have for the novella? Why did Mann choose this particular disease to inflict on Gabriele Kloterjahn? How does the disease relate to Mann’s interpretation of the concepts of art and the artist? How does the story arc correspond to the progression of Gabriele’s illness?

Essay Topic 3

Mr. Spinell’s letter is an important part of the novella, as it describes his idea of his relationship with Gabriele. Why does Mr. Spinell write the letter? Why does he mail it instead of delivering it to Mr. Kloterjahn himself? How does he describe his relationship with Gabriele Kloterjahn? Why does he view their relationship this way? How does Mr. Spinell view Mr. Kloterjahn and his relationship with his wife?

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