View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What was the name of the large exposition building?

2. What was the name of the book that Gertrude Stein was having privately printed in 1907?

3. To what author does Alice offer assistance?

4. According to Matisse, Gertrude's world was a ________________.

5. What event caused Alice to lapse with her music?

Short Essay Questions

1. What caused the turbulent nature of the Picassos' relationship?

2. In 1913, Helene left of the Stein household. What prompted the departure?

3. How does Gertrude Stein discover the works of Cézanne?

4. Why did Alice neglect to pursue education or a career while in San Francisco?

5. What event precipitated the Steins move to Vienna?

6. What was Alice's living arrangement after the untimely death of her mother?

7. What most impressed Alice about her first meeting with Gertrude Stein in Paris?

8. What was referred to as "un petit Luxembourg?"

9. What was the impetus to convince Alice to travel to Europe for the first time?

10. What piece of literature inspired Stein to write Toklas' autobiography?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

One of the techniques used in the book is the flashback. Cite five examples of a flashback and the relevance of each to the story. Explain how the use of flashback may have hindered the story in the mind of the reader. Also explain why Stein felt that it was necessary to use the flashback method.

Essay Topic 2

Much of the book details the relationships between Stein and a lengthy cast of characters. Most of the characters are famous painters and authors although many are academics, friends and relatives that bear little impact on the story as a whole. Why were these people included in the book? Do you feel that the inclusion helped or hindered the picture Stein was trying to paint of life in Paris?

Essay Topic 3

One of Stein's older brothers lived with the writer in Paris for many years. Although it may be considered odd in modern times, it was commonplace for family members, especially if they were unmarried, to live together. Discuss the pros and cons of living with a sibling as an adult.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 651 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample