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

Short Answer Questions

1. The boredom of the audience at these poetry performances is obvious to everyone but whom?

2. What casts a cloud over the exiled Russian intelligentsia?

3. How does Sergei save the brothers from the Bolsheviks on the train?

4. To where do the boys win scholarships?

5. Why does the relationship fizzle out?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Nabokov's family is exiled from Russia.

Part 1) Why?

Part 2) How is Nabokov's life is Western Europe?

Part 3) Although, Nabokov says his anger towards the Bolsheviks is due to his loss of country, how might his loss of wealth and status affect him?

Essay Topic 2

Nabokov spends his summer vacations in Biarritz, France.

Part 1) Describe Biarritz.

Part 2) How does Nabokov's family spend its time here?

Part 3) What is the author's purpose for including this information in the book?

Essay Topic 3

Nabokov gives a brief history of his maternal and paternal ancestors.

Part 1) Describe his paternal and maternal ancestors.

Part 2) Compare and contrast these ancestors.

Part 3) What can one learn about Nabokov from this information?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 273 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample