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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Commentary, Lines 1-4: I was the shadow of the waxwing slain, etc. through Line 70: the new TV.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What are the two ways to write according to Shade in Canto Three?
(a) Literally and ironically.
(b) In the bathtub, and at a desk.
(c) Indoors and outdoors.
(d) In the mind and while writing.

2. Which of the following best describes John Shade's idea of life on earth?
(a) Meaningless and random.
(b) Sad and cold.
(c) Colorful and bright.
(d) Dark and painful.

3. Which of the following best describes a recurring theme in the first Canto?
(a) Change.
(b) Reflection.
(c) Abandonment.
(d) Color.

4. What are the two most important things in Shade's life?
(a) His wife and Charles Kinbote.
(b) His poetry and his wife.
(c) His job as a professor and his wife.
(d) His Zemblan heritage and his wife.

5. What is the name of John Shade's aunt?
(a) She is never mentioned by name.
(b) Sybil.
(c) Hazel.
(d) Maude.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which of the following is not among John Shade's pet peeves?

2. Which of the following most closely describes Kinbote's depiction by university drama students?

3. John Shade's aunt is best described as what?

4. John Shade gives a lecture on what in Canto Three?

5. The first draft of "Pale Fire" was composed on a series of index cards. How many index cards did the author use?

(see the answer key)

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