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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What language does Levi speak after the war?
(a) Lager German.
(b) German.
(c) Yiddish.
(d) Polish.

2. Why did Germans need collaborators?
(a) They liked to give others some power.
(b) They liked to give orders.
(c) There were not enough Germans to keep order.
(d) They wanted to feel liked.

3. According to Levi, what can cause victims' memories to drift?
(a) Guilt.
(b) Shame.
(c) Fraud.
(d) Fear.

4. What did Levi choose to do with the object he finds?
(a) Keep it for himself.
(b) Share with the whole squad.
(c) Hide it again.
(d) Share with Alberto.

5. What does Levi think it is his mission to do?
(a) Return to being a scientist.
(b) Tell his story orally.
(c) Bear witness by writing.
(d) Lead a positive life.

Short Answer Questions

1. What was Auschwitz-Monowitz?

2. Which is the best description of Chaim Rumkowski?

3. With which statement about Eichmann and Hoss would Levi agree?

4. When was Primo Levi brought to Auschwitz?

5. What was Hitler at the time of his death?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happeneds to people who become sonderkommandos?

2. Why were political prisoners envied?

3. Explain the concept of "convenient truth."

4. How does a totalitarian state control its citizens?

5. Why do survivors simplify the past by using stark good vs. evil distinctions?

6. According to Levi, which memories seem to be universal?

7. While clearing rubble, Levi finds a spigot with fresh water. Why was this such a big deal?

8. Why does Levi argue that survivors should not feel guilt?

9. Comment on Levi's experience with speaking/understanding German in the lager.

10. Why does Primo Levi write about his experiences?

(see the answer keys)

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