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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. Even though the fifteenth century is the Renaissance era, the Jews continue to be what?

2. What is Father Vilspronck's role in the book's final chapter?

3. What does Dr. Abulafia do in Tunis?

4. After sailing for Salonica in 1541 before the Inquisition reaches Italy, where do Rabbi Zaki and his family ultimately settle?

5. After winning Safed over to the Jewish state, Gottesmann and other Jews go on to fight at Akka and:

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Dr. Abulafia flee Spain during the Inquisition?

2. Why does a priest, Father Vilspronck, come to Tell Makor in the last chapter?

3. Both Ilan Eliav and John Cullinane want to marry Dr. Vered Bar-El. Is either man successful in his personal quest?

4. In the chapter "Rabbi Itzik and the Sabra," the reader meets Vered Bar-El in her youth. Describe who she is and what she does in this chapter.

5. Explain what the rabbis determine in "The Law" about what really bonds the Jewish people.

6. What does Tabari say about the constitution reformers when he meets with his superior?

7. While Europe is destroying itself during the Inquisition, what is happening in Safed?

8. Describe the trip Volkmar the Eighth takes with his young son.

9. Why does the shoemaker Rabbi Zaki feel that he, his wife, and their family must leave their city of Podi, Italy?

10. In Germany in 1096, who is Gunter and why does he join the Crusades?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Analyze the unusual friendship between Faraj ibn Ahmed Tabari, governor of Tubariyeh, and the Russian Jew immigrant Shmuel Hacohen. What bonds them together? What do they dislike about each other? Despite their personal dislikes, why do they help each other? How do they support one another?

Essay Topic 2

During various points in the history of the region, Makor and nearby cities become places of refuge for those who are being persecuted and oppressed. Select a time when Makor or one of its nearby cities became a sanctuary for refugees. How is it that the refugees ended up here? How did their lives improve? What new hardships did they encounter? How did they overcome these new challenges?

Essay Topic 3

James Michener makes abundant use of symbolism throughout his novel. Cite three specific instances in the book where symbolism plays a key role in the story. In each case, answer the following:

1. What symbol is referenced?

2. What does the symbol represent?

3. How does symbolism enhance the story?

4. How is a symbol used to make a stronger point?

(see the answer keys)

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