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

Short Answer Questions

1. In what kind of costume is the man dressed?

2. What time is it at the beginning of the chapter?

3. Valentin cannot focus on the story because _____________.

4. What does the report say Molina does despite the cold weather?

5. What does Valentin want to do now that he is feeling better?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The format of this story is much different from other stories and novels. From the lack of description and narrative to the different punctuation for the dialogue, it seems the reader has to work harder in order to grasp the importance of each scene.

Part 1: Why do you think Puig decided to use the dialogue format he did?

Part 2: Why might Puig have decided to leave out the traditional narrative sections as one might see in other books?

Part 3: How did the new structure affect the way you read the book? In what ways was reading this book more challenging? Less challenging?

Essay Topic 2

The relationship between a man and a man is somewhat of a taboo in today's society, even without the idea of homosexuality. But its relevance to the story is not in its sexual tone, but in the way the men begin to learn more about each other and take care of each other.

Part 1: Do you think Valentin cares that Molina is a homosexual in the beginning? Why or why not?

Part 2: How do you think Valentin explains the sexual relationship between himself and Molina? Is he a homosexual as well?

Part 3: What does the sexual relationship that develops seem to say about relationships in general? Do circumstances create relationships more than feelings do? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Valentin is a Marxist revolutionary, a bit of a traitor for his time, but this role is not one that is unique. Very often, authors use people who are revolutionaries to show the reader someone who is colorful and someone who can be feared and admired.

Part 1: How does the reader know of Valentin's political leanings in this story?

Part 2: Does Valentin seem to be a strong supporter of his beliefs? Support your answer.

Part 3: What are Molina's political beliefs? What does this say about Molina?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 409 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample