The Emperor of Portugallia by Selma Lagerlöf
- 1. The Emperor of Portugallia, a poignant novel by Swedish author Selma Lagerlöf, tells the enchanting and tragic story of a poor farmer named Jan Andersson, who becomes deeply enamored with his daughter, Klara, an innocent and spirited girl. The narrative unfolds in the picturesque landscape of Sweden, where Jan's love for Klara transcends the mundane struggles of their humble life. As he grapples with the harsh realities of poverty and the bitter loss of his daughter's affection when she chooses to leave for a wealthier life, Jan's heartbreak drives him to create a fantastical world where he imagines himself as the Emperor of a mythical empire located in Portugal. This whimsical yet heartbreaking transformation serves as a profound exploration of themes such as parental love, the effects of isolation, and the power of imagination in the face of unbearable sorrow. Lagerlöf's lyrical prose paints a vivid portrait of Jan's internal struggles, revealing how his dreams and delusions offer an escape from his painful reality, while simultaneously highlighting the deep bonds of family and the inevitable impacts of societal expectations. Through this masterful blend of magical realism and a deeply human narrative, Lagerlöf invites readers to reflect on the nature of happiness, the cost of dreams, and the bittersweet essence of love and loss.
Who is the main protagonist of 'The Emperor of Portugallia'?
A) Marta
B) Jan
C) Per
D) Kärstin
- 2. What does Jan believe about his daughter?
A) She is a queen
B) She is lost forever
C) She married a prince
D) She is the Empress of Portugallia
- 3. What affects Jan's mental state?
A) Loss of his daughter
B) Financial issues
C) Old age
D) War
- 4. What does Jan call himself?
A) King
B) Sultan
C) Lord
D) Emperor
- 5. Who often reminds Jan of reality?
A) His wife
B) A neighbor
C) A friend
D) His son
- 6. What theme is prominent in the novel?
A) Mystery
B) Adventure
C) Illusion vs. reality
D) Romance
- 7. Who is the author of 'The Emperor of Portugallia'?
A) Hjalmar Söderberg
B) Astrid Lindgren
C) Karin Boye
D) Selma Lagerlöf
- 8. What impact does fantasy have on Jan's life?
A) It makes friends
B) It causes harm
C) It provides escape
D) It brings wealth
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