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

Short Answer Questions

1. When does his first poem take shape in his mind?

2. Who does Nabokov marry?

3. How would Nabokov spend hours?

4. What is happening in the larger cities of Western Europe?

5. What does Vladimir study at St. Petersburg University?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How does the Nabokov family's lifestyle before exile contradict with the father's philosophy? Why might there be this discrepancy? What do you think is the opinion of the father about his family's lifestyle in Western Europe? Use information from the text to support your response.

Essay Topic 2

Part of this autobiography observes the beginnings of Nabokov's literary talents.

Part 1) How do we first catch a glimpse of his talent as a writer?

Part 2) What is his process for creating his writing, at this stage in his life?

Part 3) How might the encouragement he receives from his family affect his writing career later in life?

Essay Topic 3

Nabokov has always had difficulty sleeping.

Part 1) Why?

Part 2) What is the purpose of an autobiography?

Part 3) What is the purpose of this autobiography?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 242 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample