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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. When talking with K after leaving the library in Part III, Sensei’s Testament, Sensei compares himself to what crouching before a lamb?

2. How does the narrator’s father always refer to Emperor Meiji when discussing news of him in the papers?

3. What is Sensei speaking of when he says they “are not meant to stir the air only: they are capable of moving greater things” in Part III, Sensei’s Testament?

4. When does the narrator say he had come home in Part II, My Parents and I?

5. When did Emperor Meiji die historically?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Soseki’s mother urge Soseki to write to Sensei in Part II, My Parents and I?

2. When does Sensei tell Soseki he began to respect him in his letter in Part III, Sensei’s Testament?

3. How old is Sensei when he is orphaned? Who is left in his charge after his parents’ deaths?

4. What happens with K’s family during their third summer holiday from school in Part III, Sensei’s Testament?

5. How are Sensei’s early days with his adoptive family described in Part III, Sensei’s Testament?

6. What explanation does Sensei give for his lack of earlier response to Soseki’s letter in Part III, Sensei’s Testament?

7. How does K’s family dispute conclude in Part III, Sensei’s Testament? How does K feel about the situation?

8. What warning does Okusan give Sensei when he first broaches the topic of K coming to live at the house in Part III, Sensei’s Testament?

9. How does Sensei go about getting approval to marry Ojosan? What is the result?

10. What conclusion does Sensei reach at the end of his letter in Part III, Sensei’s Testament?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss Soseki’s studies at the university in Part I: Sensei and I. What is implied as Soseki’s focus of study? Where does he live while in Tokyo? What does Soseki have in common with Sensei regarding his education?

Essay Topic 2

Plot Structure

a. Discuss the plot structure of Kokoro. In what ways is the narrative related and what effect does this have on the reader?

b. How does Kokoro compare with other novels written during this time period? Are there specific stylistic elements that can be seen in Soseki’s writing?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss Soseki’s letter to Sensei in Part II, My Parents and I. Does Soseki expect a response from Sensei? Does Soseki believe Sensei to be capable or willing to help him find employment? How does Soseki feel when he does not receive a reply?

(see the answer keys)

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