Semplica Girls Quiz

When the narrator first sees the Semplica Girl Arrangement at the neighbor’s house, he describes them as “elegant, serene, like figures in a modern art installation.” What tone does this description convey?

• Judgmental and cynical

• Detached and superficial

• Reverent and philosophical

• Ironic and bitter

The Semplica Girls come from countries like Laos, Moldova, and the Philippines, as the narrator notes in passing. Why is their origin significant to the story?

• It shows the globalized nature of exploitation.

• It highlights the narrator’s ignorance of their struggles.

• It contrasts the wealth of the narrator with their poverty.

• All of the above.

The narrator describes his family’s lawn after the Semplica Girls are installed: “Beautiful! Clean white smocks blowing slightly in breeze.” While the tone of the narrator is positive, what mood is created by this description that the reader must pick up to understand the meaning of the story?

• Idyllic and peaceful

• Ominous and unsettling

• Cheerful and uplifting

• Bleak and somber

Eva tells her father, “They’re people, Dad.” How does this line of dialogue contrast with the narrator’s characterization?

• It shows Eva’s strong sense of morality compared to her father’s moral blindness.

• It highlights generational differences in empathy.

• It reveals Eva’s defiance of societal norms her father accepts.

• All of the above.

The narrator frequently justifies his decisions by saying, “Everyone does it.” How does this repeated phrase reflect the story’s tone?

• It creates a satirical tone, exposing societal complacency.

• It conveys optimism about the future.

• It reflects an affectionate tone toward his family.

• It demonstrates reverence for traditional values.

The narrator notes that the Semplica Girls are connected by a microline inserted into their heads. What does this imagery suggest about their role?

• It reinforces their objectification and dehumanization.

• It highlights their beauty and elegance.

• It symbolizes their resilience.

• It shows their technological sophistication.

The narrator frequently compares himself to his neighbors, such as when he notes their larger houses and fancier lawns. What does this reveal about his perspective?

• He is motivated by envy and insecurity.

• He admires his neighbors’ generosity.

• He sees his neighbors as role models.

• He is indifferent to his neighbors’ success.

When the Semplica Girls are released, the narrator panics: “We could go broke over this!” What does his reaction reveal about his priorities?

• He values money and status over human lives.

• He is worried about losing his children’s respect.

• He feels a deep moral responsibility for the Semplica Girls.

• He blames Eva for causing chaos.

How does the use of a diary format affect the story’s point of view?

• It provides direct access to the narrator’s inner thoughts and biases.

• It allows multiple characters to share their perspectives.

• It creates an omniscient perspective on the events.

• It shifts between first-person and third-person narration.

How does the setting of the narrator’s suburban neighborhood affect the story?

• It emphasizes the pressure to conform to societal expectations.

• It highlights the wealth disparity between families.

• It contrasts with the origins of the Semplica Girls.

• All of the above.