Quiz on 'The Refusal'

What is the central theme of "The Refusal"?

• The inevitability of death

• The futility of resistance against authority

• The importance of family loyalty

• The pursuit of happiness

How does Kafka develop the theme of resistance against authority in the story?

• Through the description of the town's military history

• By depicting the town's celebration of the official's arrival

• Through the townspeople's passive attitude towards the official

• By highlighting the protagonist's internal conflict and ultimate refusal

Which line from the text best supports the theme of resistance against authority?

• The square had never been so crowded.

• But the citizen’s clear response came out of the silence.

• The official laughed loudly as if he had heard a joke.

• The crowd’s excitement was palpable, but no one stepped forward.

What is the tone of "The Refusal"?

• Hopeful and uplifting

• Cynical and detached

• Melancholic and sorrowful

• Humorous and lighthearted

What mood does the story evoke in the reader?

• Joyful and content

• Tense and uneasy

• Amused and entertained

• Confident and empowered

How is the main character, the unnamed citizen, described in the story?

• A) Fearful and submissive

• B) Proud and defiant

• C) Confused and uncertain

• D) Joyful and celebratory

How does Kafka use figurative or descriptive language to convey the main character's emotions?

• A) By comparing the protagonist to a lion

• B) Through detailed descriptions of the setting

• C) By using metaphors to describe the protagonist's inner turmoil

• D) Through hyperbole about the town's festivities

How does the main character interact with the official in the story?

• A) He is openly hostile and confrontational

• B) He engages in a heated debate

• C) He responds with a calm yet firm refusal

• D) He complies with the official’s demands

Which plot element is most central to 'The Refusal'?

• A) The protagonist’s internal conflict

• B) The arrival of the official

• C) The town's festive preparation

• D) The protagonist’s final decision

How does the setting affect the plot of the story?

• A) The festive atmosphere highlights the contrast with the protagonist's mood

• B) The quiet, isolated town reflects the protagonist's loneliness

• C) The setting has little impact on the story's development

• D) The luxurious environment leads to the protagonist’s change of heart