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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. Bourdoncle thinks that the women Mouret uses eventually will seek ____________.

2. What is Mouret's best business skill?

3. On what day of the week does Madame Desforge hold her teas?

4. Which of the following does NOT characterize the Au Bonheur des Dames employees?

5. Where do Denise and her brothers come from?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the imagery introduced in Chapter 2 regarding the big department store?

2. Explain the symbolism of the windows in Chapter 13.

3. What other reasons does Madame Baudu speculate could be the source of Genevieve's illness aside from the postponement of her marriage to Colomban?

4. What does Denise tell her Uncle Baudu about why she and her brothers have come to Paris?

5. How does Vincard symbolize the easier life the store owners could achieve if they can only give in and sell out to Mouret?

6. Who is Mouret intent on meeting at Madame Desforges' tea and why is this meeting important to him?

7. Explain the imagery of comparing the store to a church or temple.

8. Why is Denise so apprehensive about Jouve?

9. Describe the initial contacts between Denise and Mouret.

10. What is the symbolism of Genevieve's death?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The author uses some important instances of foreshadowing in the story. Explain what foreshadowing is and cite at least two examples making sure to explain what makes each an example of foreshadowing.

Essay Topic 2

There is a lot of symbolism in this story regarding the expansion of Au Bonheur des Dames. What does the growth of the store symbolize for those who work there? For the neighborhood shop owners? For the retail industry in general? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

AU BONHEUR DES DAMES is a classic struggle for survival story. What does that classification entail? Why does this play fit into this category? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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