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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. What does Gudrun ask Thorgils to do?

2. What kills Kjartan?

3. Who is reluctant to join Thorgils' mission?

4. Who has Snorri chosen for Gudrun to marry?

5. From whom do both Kjartan and Bolli descend?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the family feud end?

2. How does Gudrun extricate herself from marrying Thorgils?

3. What is the prophecy about Thorkel and how does it come true?

4. When Thorgils stays at Helgi's estate, what does Helgi do?

5. What does Thorgend do to avenge Kjartan's death?

6. What is Gudrun willing to offer Thorgils and in exchange of what?

7. What happens to Bolli, Gudrun's son in the final chapters of the book?

8. What happens to Gellir in the final chapters of the book?

9. Describe Gudrun and Thorkel's relationship?

10. What evil act does Snorri the Priest commit?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the role of women in medieval Scandinavia in the twelfth century when the women in the Laxdaela Saga are living their lives. What precedents do they feel compelled to follow? What restrictions do they have? What freedoms, if any, did they have that 21st century women do not have?

Essay Topic 2

As with many medieval tales, history is blurred by myths, legends, and religious parables. Compare and contrast these types of stories. In the case of the Laxdaela Saga, there are many references to myth. Research and find an ancient Scandinavian myth of your choice. How does this myth compare to one in the Laxdaela Saga? What elements are believable instantly and which elements seem more fictional? Describe.

Essay Topic 3

Certain relationships create a good foundation for social structure in the Laxdaela Saga. When Snorri tells Gudrun who to marry, Gudrun follows his advice, spurning her other suitor. They both interact in a very convincing manner. Describe why this relationship is believable.

(see the answer keys)

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