Austerlitz by W. G. Sebald
  • 1. Austerlitz by W. G. Sebald is a profound and intricate narrative that weaves together themes of memory, identity, and the haunting shadows of history. The novel follows the life of Jacques Austerlitz, a man who, as a child, was sent to England on the kindertransport, escaping the horrors of Nazi-occupied Europe. Through his journey of self-discovery, Austerlitz grapples with the fragmented memories of his early life, the loss of his parents, and the cultural dislocation resulting from the trauma of war. Sebald's distinctive prose, characterized by its lyrical quality and philosophical depth, invites readers to reflect on the nature of historical remembrance and the ways in which personal histories intertwine with collective trauma. The narrative is punctuated by rich, evocative descriptions of landscapes and architecture, serving as a backdrop for Austerlitz’s existential quest as he seeks to uncover the truths of his lineage and the scars left by a tumultuous past. Ultimately, Austerlitz is not just a story of an individual; it is a meditation on how the past reverberates into the present, urging us to confront the legacies of history that shape our identities.

    Who is the main character in 'Austerlitz'?
A) Jacques Austerlitz
B) Sebald W. G.
C) Veronique Austerlitz
D) Professor H.
  • 2. Which historical event is closely tied to Austerlitz's past?
A) The Holocaust
B) The French Revolution
C) World War I
D) The Cold War
  • 3. Where does Austerlitz live at the beginning of the novel?
A) In London
B) In Amsterdam
C) In Paris
D) In Berlin
  • 4. What does the architecture symbolize in 'Austerlitz'?
A) History and progress
B) Freedom and hope
C) Memory and loss
D) Power and wealth
  • 5. Which city does Austerlitz visit that is significant to his past?
A) Prague
B) Warsaw
C) Vienna
D) Budapest
  • 6. What genre does 'Austerlitz' belong to?
A) Poetry
B) Short story collection
C) Biography
D) Novel
  • 7. What is a recurring theme in 'Austerlitz'?
A) Political power
B) Romantic relationships
C) The impact of trauma
D) Economic success
  • 8. What does Austerlitz's journey represent?
A) A search for identity
B) A quest for adventure
C) A pursuit of wealth
D) A journey of love
  • 9. What is Austerlitz's profession?
A) Teacher
B) Architect
C) Artist
D) Historian
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