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

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Chaval announce when he comes to the Advantage during the strike?

2. What are the miners requesting at Hennebeau's house?

3. Who does the owner of the Jean-Bart mine convince to stop the strike?

4. What major character is killed at the confrontation at the mine?

5. Why does Lantier set up a meeting with the miners?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The first chapter also introduces the "monster," which is the huge cone-like structure set over the pit that is described as a beast ready to eat the men that slave for it.

1. How did you feel about the mine from the way Zola described it?

2. Using metaphors and analogy describe the mine as Zola sees it.

3. Why do you think Zola used metaphors in his descriptions?

Essay Topic 2

As the miners march toward Montsou, their numbers grow; the more they grow, the more they feel certain of their success. This anticipated success leads the striking miners to commit acts they would not have the strength to perform individually.

1. How do the miners demonstrate the power of a crowd?

2. There are also examples of the power of an individual in the book. What were two of them?

Essay Topic 3

There seems to be a huge gap between the rich and poor in this novel.

1. How is this difference shown in the book?

2. Do you see this gap existing in America today? Why or why not?

3. Do you see any morality issue with the gap between the very rich and the very poor?

Use examples to illustrate your answer.

(see the answer keys)

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