In "Belfagor," why do the rulers of hell think it would make them look bad if wives were responsible for most or all of the damned souls of men?

In "Belfagor," what is the significance of the fact that Machiavelli uses the name of a Roman god—Pluto—to refer to Satan?

Explain to what extent Verga follows the tenets of the naturalist literary school in "Rosso Malpelo."

Discuss the attitude towards women reflected in each of the three first stories in this collection.

Discuss similarities between pagan religions, as they are usually understood, and the presentation of the Catholic religion in "The Idolaters." What point is d'Annunzio trying to make?

Is "The Broken Toys" an allegory? If so, explain its elements.

What is the significance of the subplot with Eunice in "Competition?"