Carmen by Prosper Mérimée
- 1. Carmen by Prosper Mérimée is a captivating novella published in 1845 that tells the story of the passionate and tumultuous relationship between Don José, a naive and impressionable soldier, and Carmen, a fiery and alluring gypsy woman who embodies freedom and defiance. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Seville, Spain, Mérimée crafts a tale of love, obsession, and tragedy that explores themes of fate, desire, and the clash between societal norms and individual passions. Carmen, with her seductive charm and fierce independence, seduces Don José, leading him to abandon his duties and engage in a life of crime as he becomes increasingly consumed by his infatuation. The narrative unfolds with a sense of inevitability, showcasing how Don José's inability to possess Carmen ultimately leads to his downfall. Mérimée's rich, evocative prose captures the exoticism of the Spanish setting and the complexities of its characters, making Carmen not only a story of romance but also a profound reflection on the nature of love and the consequences of unbridled passion. This novella laid the groundwork for various adaptations, most notably the famous opera by Georges Bizet, and has left an indelible mark on literary and musical culture, symbolizing the poignant interplay between desire and despair.
Who is the author of 'Carmen'?
A) Emile Zola
B) Victor Hugo
C) Gustave Flaubert
D) Prosper Mérimée
- 2. In which country is 'Carmen' set?
A) Portugal
B) Spain
C) Italy
D) France
- 3. What is Carmen's nationality?
A) Italian
B) French
C) Portuguese
D) Spanish
- 4. Who falls in love with Carmen?
A) Don José
B) Escamillo
C) Dancaire
D) Zuniga
- 5. What is Escamillo's profession?
A) Bullfighter
B) Bandit
C) Soldier
D) Tobacco worker
- 6. Which character is a love rival to Don José?
A) Zuniga
B) Micaëla
C) Dancaire
D) Escamillo
- 7. What does Carmen symbolize in the story?
A) Freedom and passion
B) Fear and submission
C) Tradition and stability
D) Greed and power
- 8. When was 'Carmen' first published?
A) 1845
B) 1850
C) 1865
D) 1831
- 9. What Spanish dance is often associated with Carmen?
A) Flamenco
B) Tango
C) Ballet
D) Samba
|