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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. Who does Andrei say his gifts are for?

2. What does Kira tell Andrei after Leo's arrest?

3. Why does Vasili say he always wanted a son?

4. Who gets arrested an hour before their train departs?

5. Why has no one been assigned the extra rooms of Victor's apartment?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens between Stepan and Karp at a club?

2. Why do students have to fill out questionnaires?

3. What happens when Kira comes home after Victor's wedding party?

4. Why does Andrei say Kira cannot return his love?

5. How does Kira put Andrei's life in danger by sharing a secret?

6. What makes Vasili connect with Glieb?

7. What does Kira reveal to Andrei about the night he said he loved her?

8. Why does Victor feel that he cannot get ahead in the Communist Party?

9. Why has Stepan lost faith in the revolution/Communism?

10. What happens to Kira at the House of Peasants that worries her?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Communist Party takes part in several "purges" in "We the Living". What does the word "purge" mean? What emotions are reflected in the word? Describe the purges and the outcomes. What is the implication of a purge? Can a society truly purge itself? Is it better to try to purge, or just accept? Use examples from the novel to support your opinion.

Essay Topic 2

Leo is one of the most dynamic characters in "We the Living". Consider Leo's life in terms of the following: his family history, his relationship with Kira, his relationship with women, and his desire to get ahead in life. Is Leo tragic?

Essay Topic 3

Consider the many romantic relationships at play in "We the Living". Compare and contrast three of these relationships. What is each member's purpose in the relationship? Is the relationship a success or a failure? What impact does the relationship have on others? What does each relationship reflect about life in Russia at this time?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 662 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample