Short Stories Unit I: God Sees the Truth

Questions and Answers

Who is the author of 'The Model Millionaire'?

Oscar Wilde

What condition did Laura's father set for Hughie to marry her?

Hughie needed to have ten thousand pounds of his own.

What was Hughie's financial situation at the start of the story?

Hughie was poor and lived on two hundred pounds a year from an old aunt.

Who was Baron Hausberg in the story?

Baron Hausberg was a millionaire who disguised himself as a beggar. Signup and view all the answers

How did Hughie unknowingly help Baron Hausberg?

Hughie gave money to Baron Hausberg while he was posing as a beggar. Signup and view all the answers

What was Aksionov wrongly accused of in the story?

He was wrongly accused of robbing and killing a merchant. Signup and view all the answers

How long did Aksionov spend in prison?

Aksionov spent twenty-six years in prison. Signup and view all the answers

Who was the real murderer that Aksionov encounters in prison?

The real murderer was Makar Semenich. Signup and view all the answers

What significant action does Aksionov take when he learns of Makar's plan to escape?

Aksionov decides not to disclose Makar's escape plan to the prison authorities. Signup and view all the answers

What is Aksionov's response to Makar's plea for forgiveness?

Aksionov tells Makar that only God would forgive him. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Leo Tolstoy and "God Sees the Truth, But Waits"

Leo Tolstoy, a prominent Russian novelist, is renowned for his major works including War and Peace and Anna Karenina.
Born into an aristocratic family, Tolstoy's background influenced his perspectives on morality and realism in literature.
Advocated for simple Christian virtues, emphasizing purification and love, while rejecting formal religion.
In "God Sees the Truth, But Waits," Aksionov, a merchant, is unjustly imprisoned for twenty-six years for a crime he did not commit.
Aksionov learns of his true accuser, Makar Semenich, and has the opportunity for revenge but chooses compassion instead.
Makar seeks forgiveness from Aksionov, who responds with empathy, highlighting themes of redemption and divine justice.
Aksionov dies just as he is to be released, underscoring the tragic consequences of wrongful imprisonment.

Oscar Wilde and "The Model Millionaire"

Oscar Wilde, an Irish literary figure, excelled in diverse genres such as drama, poetry, and novel writing.
Educated at Trinity College, Dublin, and Magdalen College, Oxford, Wilde was known for his sharp wit and critique of societal norms.
Key works include The Picture of Dorian Gray and The Importance of Being Earnest, showcasing his literary range and style.
"The Model Millionaire" narrates the story of Hughie Erskine, a handsome but impoverished young man in love with Laura, whose father demands wealth for marriage.
In a twist of fate, Hughie unknowingly helps Baron Hausberg, a wealthy man disguised as a beggar while visiting a friend's studio.
The Baron, moved by Hughie's situation, anonymously provides Hughie with the necessary funds for marriage, revealing hidden kindness amidst appearances.
The story reflects themes of generosity, love, and the unpredictability of fortune in relationships.

Description

Dive into the literary genius of Leo Tolstoy through his short story 'God Sees the Truth, But Waits.' This quiz explores themes, character analysis, and insights about Tolstoy's background that shaped his writing. Test your understanding and appreciation of one of Russia's most acclaimed authors.