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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. How does the Akashi lady feel when she arrives at her new mansion?

2. Who is Genji's former nurse?

3. What festival does Genji attend at the beginning of Chapter 8?

4. What hits Genji's palace in Rokujo?

5. Who is Omi?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain the event that takes place between Genji and Naishi.

2. Genji begins spending more time with the Akashi lady. How does Murasaki feel about this?

3. How does Genji feel after the death of Kashiwagi?

4. After seeing the Third Princess as a nun Genji's feelings toward her changes, how?

5. Why does Kaoru begin to regret his refusal of Nakanokimi?

6. During Kaoru's meeting with the Emporer, what is the Go board used for?

7. Describe the meeting between Yugiri and Kumoinokari after their six-year separation.

8. Why is Tamakazura reduced to tears at the sight of Kaoru?

9. Explain Genji's death.

10. It is discovered that Yugiri has never laid eyes upon Murasaki, the woman who acts as his mother. Why does Genji wish to keep her hidden?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Why do you believe the author leaves certain events out? For instance, she left out the fact that Fujitsuo and Genji slept together; the reader does not realize this until much later. How does this add or take away from the story? What do you think? Why?

Essay Topic 2

What do you believe is the prevailing theme in the novel? Why? How do you interpret this theme?

Essay Topic 3

While on her death bed, Murasaki tells Genji about her wish to become a nun. Genji rejects her wish. Was this cruel of Genji why or why not? Is Genji selfish, an egotistical character? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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