A Ladder to the Sky Quiz

Take our free A Ladder to the Sky quiz below, with 25 multiple choice questions that help you test your knowledge. Determine which chapters, themes and styles you already know and what you need to study for your upcoming essay, midterm, or final exam. Take the free quiz now!

Why does Maurice feel that ambition, like setting a ladder to the sky, is a waste of energy (309)? (from Part 3: Other People's Stories)

A ladder pointed to the sky has no end point that can be reached and every action becomes endless striving.

He feels that everyone in his life failed him in helping him succeed.

He feels that too many people along the way are trying to knock you down a few rungs.

He thinks that you have to work too hard to reach your goals and it is emotionally and physically draining.

Why does Nicholas come to visit Edith in the hospital after hours? (from Part 2: The Tribesman)

Nicholas was not able to come during regular hours because of school.

The special relationship they shared was unknown to anyone, so he wanted to keep it that way.

He wanted Edith all to himself and not have to share her with other visitors.

Maurice did not allow any of the students to come visit Edith.

What does the author suggest as Dash Hardy passes Erich in the hallway with a bottle of champagne and two glasses? (from Part 1: Before the Wall Came Down)

Dash is heading off to have a romantic liaison with Maurice.

Dash is heading to a party meant only for the younger writers.

Dash is heading to his room to meet the Spanish novelist.

Dash is celebrating the signing of a new book deal.

Whose stories does Maurice tell? (from Part 3: Other People's Stories)

He really only tells his own story.

He tells the story of every truly ambitious person in the literary world.

He tells not only his story, but those of Erich, Edith, Dash and Daniel.

He tells the stories belonging to Erich, Edith, Dash and Daniel.

Why does Erich tell Oskar that his painting of Alysse is almost pornographic in nature? (from Part 1: Before the Wall Came Down)

He is jealous of the passion that Oskar has captured both in real life and on the canvas.

He thinks that the painting is merely sexual in nature and not very good.

He is worried that Oskar will get caught by the Nazis for painting a naked woman.

Her pose is highly suggestive and beckons the view to lust after her.