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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. Why can't Bartolomé's body be brought back to be buried?

2. How many men is El Tilcuate fighting with?

3. When does Miguel first begin having girls procured for him?

4. Who tells don Pedro that El Tilcuate is killed?

5. How does Abundio's wife die?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why doesn't Abundio's wife get last rites?

2. What does Justina tell Susana she is going to tell don Pedro when he comes?

3. What happens during Father Rentería's confession?

4. What does Father Rentería describe to Susana as she lay dying?

5. How does don Pedro avenge his father's death?

6. What happens when the revolutionaries come to don Pedro's house?

7. Why does Susana think Father Rentería has come to see her?

8. Describe the night Susana learns of Florencio's death.

9. Why do Angeles and Fausta think Susana doesn't need confess her sins?

10. Why does Father Rentería feel guilty about Miguel's crimes?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The women in the novel are very vulnerable characters who often are at the mercy of evil, controlling men. Select at least three of the following characters and analyze their place in the context of the novel:

- Dolores

- Eduviges

- Susana

- Damiana

- Donis' sister

Addressing the following questions:

- How does the character react to her fate?

- How is the character motivated by factors related to her gender?

- How do other characters treat her?

- Overall, do you think women are totally powerless in the novel? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

The Roman Catholic religion, as embodied by Father Rentería, is critiqued throughout the novel. What is the role of religion in the lives of the people of Comala? Does it provide a solace or is it more based on fear of damnation? Which characters are most affected by their faith? What characters are affected the least? Explain how Father Rentería is seen as both a positive and negative symbol of church. Use specific examples from the text.

Essay Topic 3

Susana's character is revealed to the reader almost entirely through her memories and delusions as heard from her grave. Give examples of the ways in which she is revealed to be losing her mind. Do you think her madness is a protective mechanism against the forces around her or an escape from them? How does Susana's behavior affect those around her, including Father Rentería, Justina, and Pedro? Do you think that Susana is a sympathetic character? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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