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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. Om and Ishvar are traveling to apply for which position?

2. After meeting with Rustom, how does Nusswan feel about his sister's impending marriage?

3. What was Rustom's most prized possession?

4. Who are the police gathering up in the streets in Chapter 8?

5. What part of Om's body becomes too sore for him to sew?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Dukhi send for his sons to be sent to live with Ashraf?

2. How do Ishvar and Om meet Maneck?

3. What is Dina's relationship with Fredoon?

4. What are Sergeant Kesar and the facilitator sent to the streets to do?

5. How do Om and Ishvar find shelter after they lose their home in Chapter 7?

6. Who is Ibrahim and what does he demand?

7. Why is Narayan murdered?

8. How does the relationship between Dina and Rustom progress?

9. What is Ishvar and Om's reaction to the work that they must do in the relocation camp?

10. What does Dina's collection of cloth symbolize?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The societal structure set up in the novel is one of authority. It seems that most people want authority over others, and once they have it, find themselves exploiting it. Choose one relationship with the novel and explain how both authority and exploitation are large factors in the way that these two people relate. Does it seem that only one person is benefiting in the relationship, or is it possible to find a balance, even when exploitation is involved?

Essay Topic 2

The idea of family planning and sterilization is a constant theme within the novel.

Part 1.) Explain what reasons you think the government has for wanting to sterilize villagers.

Part 2.) Explain the ways that the sterilization project spun completely out of control and the catastrophic effects that it had on individuals as well as communities. Were these outcomes intended?

Part 3.) Choose two characters and explain the ways that sterilization project most affected. How might their lives have been different if the sterilization project had never been approved by the government?

Essay Topic 3

Dina Dalal is described as a very tough woman. There have been many mishaps in her life that have shaped her. Describe two incidents in Dina's life that have shaped her into the independent woman that she is. Also, compare/contrast Dina's relationships with her brother Nusswan and Rustom. Which relationship do you think had a larger impact on her?

(see the answer keys)

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