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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. Upon arrival, what were nearly impossible to find?

2. Italians believe that the effects of life _______________ be eliminated.

3. The passion for ______________ allows Italians to glide over life's surface leaving the ugly part as untouched as possible.

4. What did many view Italians as deserving?

5. What still remains in Italy?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is Italian life like a play or show?

2. From where do most foreigners to Italy come? What brings these visitors?

3. What is the fourth evil spirit? Describe it.

4. Why must one be careful when falling in love in Italy?

5. How do you feel about the deception of the Italian people?

6. What is the stereotype of Italians?

7. How was travel to Italy in ancient times?

8. How do the Italians feel about work?

9. What is a part of Italy's charm? Explain this aspect.

10. How does this opening affect the reader?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The rules for survival in Italian society.

Part 1) What are these rules? How does one learn the rules? Why are they necessary?

Part 2) How does this reflect the Italians' view on life?

Part 3) How does this also reflect the philosophy of illusion and deception? How can these rules both help and hurt a family and society?

Part 4) How does this foreshadow powerful groups such as the Mafia?

Essay Topic 2

A contemporary of Casanova's was Giuseppe Balsamo.

Part 1) Who was Giuseppe Balsamo? For what is he famous?

Part 2) Why is this story included in this book?

Part 3) How does Balsamo compare to other Italians of his day? How does this affect one's view of Italy?

Essay Topic 3

Foreigners have come to Italy since ancient times.

Part 1) Describe these ancient travels. Why was it so difficult?

Part 2) What is the importance of Rome? How does this continue to draw visitors?

Part 3) To what other nations might one compare Italy? How? Why?

(see the answer keys)

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