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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. Why does Andrei decide to investigate the food store?

2. Who does Irina say is trying to be "broadminded" when it comes to Victor's political choices?

3. Leo says that life is easier when ________.

4. Who says they have nothing for a future?

5. What does Kira learn about Galina the night she visits Kira's apartment?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. Why does Leo refer to himself as a "gigolo"?

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

5. What does Katia tell Sasha one evening after Irina says she fears he will be exiled?

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

7. What happens when Kira watches a building under construction?

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

9. Why do students have to fill out questionnaires?

10. What happens with the wedding present Leo bought for Victor?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Using details from the novel, describe what you think Russia would look like if it were NOT a Communist country. How would Kira's ideals translate into a government? What would daily life be like? How would this differ from the Russia of "We the Living"?

Essay Topic 2

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?

Essay Topic 3

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?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 618 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample