The Thief and the Dogs Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What does Said see when he looks out of the window in Nur's apartment?

The cemetery and graves lying quietly in the moonlight.

Where did Said leave his uniform?

In Nur's house.

What is Said's emotional state as he realizes the police are closing in on him?

He is scared and feels helpless.

In Chapter 17, Said's poor decisions come back to _____ him.

haunt Signup and view all the answers

Said has taken responsibility for his actions by Chapter 17.

False Signup and view all the answers

What theme is constantly present throughout Said's story?

Fate. Signup and view all the answers

How does Said feel about his conversation with the Sheikh?

He found it tough and annoying. Signup and view all the answers

Who is the character that Said is searching for?

Ilish Sidra Signup and view all the answers

Said trusts the information given by Bayaza.

True Signup and view all the answers

What does Said hope to achieve through his quest for revenge?

He hopes to regain his life by taking revenge on those who wronged him. Signup and view all the answers

Said is described as being calm and patient as he navigates his situation.

False Signup and view all the answers

Said refers to traitors as ________ in his narrative.

dogs Signup and view all the answers

In Chapter 15, what major event has happened to Said that affects his ability to go outside?

He killed Rauf's doorkeeper. Signup and view all the answers

What phrase did Nur say that indicates her belief about Said's morality?

You don't know good from bad. Signup and view all the answers

What does Said's gun symbolize in Chapter 15?

Innocence. Signup and view all the answers

Said describes his home as a ________ place.

desolate Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following themes is explored in Chapter 15?

Justice Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'you will be judged as a great man' imply about Said's perception of himself?

Said believes that he is destined for greatness despite his crimes. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'The Thief and the Dogs' about?

It is a novel by Naguib Mahfouz about the protagonist, Said Mahran, who is a thief seeking revenge after being released from jail. Signup and view all the answers

Who is the protagonist of 'The Thief and the Dogs'?

Said Mahran Signup and view all the answers

What does Said Mahran want to reclaim after his release from prison?

His books and daughter Signup and view all the answers

Who betrayed Said Mahran leading to his imprisonment?

Ilish Sidra Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary theme of 'The Thief and the Dogs'?

Existentialism and betrayal Signup and view all the answers

Nabawiyya was Said's first love.

True Signup and view all the answers

Match the characters with their roles:

Said Mahran = Protagonist and thief Ilish Sidra = Betrayed Said Rauf Ilwan = Said's mentor Nur = Prostitute who loves Said Signup and view all the answers

The novel ends with Said's _____.

death Signup and view all the answers

Which literary style is commonly used by Naguib Mahfouz in this novel?

Stream-of-consciousness Signup and view all the answers

What kind of relationship does Said have with his daughter, Sana?

Distant and estranged Signup and view all the answers

What is Said's perception of Rauf Ilwan by the end of the novel?

A traitor Signup and view all the answers

What analogy does Said use to describe himself in relation to love?

A rock Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following themes is raised in Chapter 5? (Select all that apply)

Forgiveness Signup and view all the answers

In Chapter 5, what is Said's environment compared to?

A wasteland stretching into the distance Signup and view all the answers

What recurring theme is highlighted in Said's conversation with Tarzan? (Choose one)

Forgiveness Signup and view all the answers

What does Said reflect on regarding Rauf Ilwan's changes?

Rauf has betrayed his old ideas for money Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following locations is prominently featured in Chapter 3?

Zahra Offices Signup and view all the answers

Said believes prison changed him significantly.

False Signup and view all the answers

Rauf's office has ___ overlooking the street.

one glass wall Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the first themes encountered in Chapter 11?

Betrayal Signup and view all the answers

What major event does Said reflect on regarding his parents in Chapter 11?

Their deaths Signup and view all the answers

Which character does Said feel a passionate urge to comfort in Chapter 11?

Nur Signup and view all the answers

What justification for theft is discussed in Chapter 11?

Robin Hood justification Signup and view all the answers

In Chapter 11, what does Said feel towards authority figures?

Disgust Signup and view all the answers

What literary device is prominently used in Chapter 11 according to the analysis?

Animal imagery Signup and view all the answers

What does the graveyard symbolize in Chapter 11?

Death Signup and view all the answers

In Chapter 10, what setting does Said wait in?

Nur's apartment Signup and view all the answers

What themes heavily influence Chapter 10?

Conflict between life and death and the influence of the past Signup and view all the answers

Who does Said reflect on during Chapter 10?

Nabawiyya Signup and view all the answers

What metaphor is used towards the end of Chapter 10 to describe Said and Nur's relationship?

A moth and a light bulb Signup and view all the answers

What does Said carry in Chapter 5 indicating his quest for revenge?

A revolver Signup and view all the answers

How does Said describe his emotional state in Chapter 5?

Isolated and desolate Signup and view all the answers

Who is Tarzan in Said's life according to Chapter 5?

A trusted friend Signup and view all the answers

What role does Nur assume in Chapter 5?

She claims she can help Said acquire a car Signup and view all the answers

What literary imagery is prevalent in Chapter 5 to describe Said's surroundings?

Animal imagery Signup and view all the answers

What item does Said pat in Chapter 5 to regain his composure?

His gun Signup and view all the answers

How do the people in the café react to Said's entrance in Chapter 5?

They rise to greet him warmly Signup and view all the answers

What feelings does Said express towards Nabawiyya?

Hatred Signup and view all the answers

What crime is Said associated with in the novel?

Theft Signup and view all the answers

Said feels guilty about his actions and acknowledges being a criminal.

False Signup and view all the answers

How does Said feel when he thinks of his daughter Sana?

Love Signup and view all the answers

Said's inflated opinion of himself is evidenced when he claims he can strike 'like ______.'

Fate Signup and view all the answers

Match the following characters with their descriptions:

Said = A man who feels betrayed and seeks revenge Nabawiyya = Said's ex-wife whom he despises Ilish = A character associated with Said's feeling of betrayal Nur = A character who loves Said despite his coldness Signup and view all the answers

What does Said believe about the factors driving his actions?

Fate, circumstances, and duty Signup and view all the answers

The animal imagery in the novel depicts animals in a positive light.

False Signup and view all the answers

What does Said wish for Nur regarding their relationship?

He wishes she would never leave him. Signup and view all the answers

What emotion does Said feel towards Rauf Ilwan?

Revenge Signup and view all the answers

In which chapter does Said collaborate with Nur to steal a car?

Chapter 6 Signup and view all the answers

Said successfully kills Ilish at the end of chapter 7.

False Signup and view all the answers

Said's character is often described using animal imagery, where he sees himself as 'a tiger,' and others as '_____.'

dogs Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Thief And The Dogs Overview

Written by Naguib Mahfouz, published in 1961, reflecting political sentiments of the Egyptian revolution.
Explores themes of existentialism through a stream-of-consciousness and surrealist narration style.
Follows protagonist Said Mahran, a thief released from prison, seeking revenge, reunion with his daughter Sana, and confronting societal disillusionment.
The narrative spans seventeen days, culminating in Said's death.

Character List

Said Mahran: Central character; aims for revenge against those who betrayed him while struggling with societal rejection.
Ilish Sidra: Said's ex-colleague who betrayed him, claiming Said's family during his imprisonment.
Nabawiyya: Said's former wife, symbolizes disloyalty as she chose Ilish over Said.
Rauf Ilwan: Said's mentor turned wealthy journalist; represents betrayal of revolutionary ideals.
Sana: Said's daughter; represents hope and loss; rejects Said upon their reunion after his prison term.
Sheikh El-Guneidi: Spiritual guide for Said; evokes memories of childhood ethics and Islam.
Tarzan: Old friend, café owner; aids Said by providing support and connections to the underground.
Nur: Prostitute who falls in love with Said; embodies conflict between revenge and personal happiness.

Themes

Betrayal: Central theme depicted through Said's relationships with Ilish, Nabawiyya, and Rauf.
Disillusionment: Reflects the struggles of Egyptian society post-revolution.
Existentialism: Explores identity, purpose, and morality through Said's introspective journey.
Love and Loss: Explores complex emotional connections, particularly between Said and Nur/Sana.

Key Quotes

"Only shameful deeds can shame a man." – highlights the theme of guilt and morality.
"You made me and now you reject me..." – reflects feelings of loss and betrayal.
"The real tragedy is that our enemy is at the same time our friend." – emphasizes complexity in relationships.

Imagery and Symbolism

Dogs: Symbolize betrayal and loyalty; Ilish and Nabawiyya viewed negatively by Said.
Graveyard: Enhances themes of death and legacy; Said's reflections while viewing it signal his impending fate.
Animals: Different comparisons (e.g., "like a mouse", "like a tiger") illustrate Said's perceived strength and vulnerability throughout the story.

Character Development - Chapter Insights

Character arcs are fleshed out through Said's interactions with Rauf and Nur, revealing deeper emotions and moral ambiguity.
The Sheikh's wisdom offers contrasting views on ethics and morality, shaping Said's perspectives.
Nur’s character evolves from mere support to a potential romantic interest, challenging Said's motivations.

Narrative Structure

The story unfolds within a strict timeframe (seventeen days), marking each chapter with significant events that affect Said's emotional state.
Internal monologues provide insight into Said's psyche, showcasing his justifications and regrets.

Final Reflections

Said's journey highlights the broader commentary on societal expectations, personal failure, and the consequences of betrayal.
Mahfouz uses Said’s tragic descent as a metaphor for the disillusionment faced by many in post-revolution Egypt.### Themes in Chapter 11
Justification of theft, labeled as "Robin Hood" justification, commonly represented.
Authority's criticism; Said expresses disgust over his mother's death due to rejection by a hospital.
A smuggler's remark illustrates police ineffectiveness: "Nothing impresses the police."

Imagery in Chapter 11

Use of animal imagery to enhance tone; Said compares his escape to how mice and foxes feel in evasion.
Said's disdain for aggressors is represented through derogatory references to "dogs."

Plot Overview of Chapter 11

Said reminisces in a graveyard about childhood, parents, and notable relationships.
After reflecting on the past, he encounters a smuggler and learns of Nur's assault by students.
Nur recounts her visit to a fortune-teller who promised future "security" despite her skepticism.

Sense of Place in Chapter 10

Nur's apartment is surrounded by graves, reflecting a morbid atmosphere; setting indicates isolation and foreboding.

Themes in Chapter 10

Past influences strongly impact present experiences; Said's memories dominate his thoughts.
Life and death themes are prevalent; he grapples with lost love and mundane observations that hint at deeper existential concerns.
Solitude is highlighted as Nur is only briefly present, emphasizing Said's inner loneliness.
Betrayal continues to motivate Said’s actions and thoughts throughout the chapter.

Characterization in Chapter 10

Deep exploration of Said's emotions through his extensive interior monologue, reflecting feelings of betrayal and longing.
Reminders of past relationships draw out vulnerability in Said, particularly regarding Nabawiyya.
Contrast arises between Said's early affection for Nabawiyya and his current bitter feelings, showcasing character complexity.

Imagery/Symbols in Chapter 10

Graves symbolize death and resignation, reinforcing an atmosphere of hopelessness.
Bullets are metaphors for betrayal and revenge, reflecting Said's internal turmoil and aggression.
Animal imagery reflects feelings of savagery and discontent in Said’s perspective of others.

Plot Summary of Chapter 10

Said's reflective monologue dominates as he awaits Nur, prompts memories of Nabawiyya.
Their dinner conversation suggests intimacy as the chapter closes with a metaphorical note on love.

Plot Summary of Chapter 5

Introduction of Tarzan and Nur, hinting at their significance in Said’s journey; seeds of trust are planted.
The chapter primarily sets the stage for upcoming events rather than advancing the story.

Imagery in Chapter 5

Descriptions of desolation evoke feelings of isolation; café as a retreat from chaos.
The juxtaposition of beauty and danger is illustrated through animal imagery and the presence of a gun, symbolizing confidence.

Characterization in Chapter 5

Said’s re-establishment of connections demonstrates his complexity beyond isolation.
Interaction with Tarzan reveals trust in old friendships while showcasing Said's emotional coldness.

Themes in Chapter 5

Exploring themes of trust and forgiveness, as Said navigates friendships and past grievances.
Contrasts in familiarity denote emotional struggle as Said grapples with returning to old environments.

Sense of Place in Chapter 5

Setting is concentrated within the café, highlighting cultural practices and community life against a backdrop of urban Cairo; the surrounding wasteland emphasizes feelings of confinement.

Plot Summary of Chapter 3

Said visits former mentor Rauf Ilwan, whose lifestyle contrasts sharply with Said’s past experience.
The superficiality of their meeting reveals societal divides and personal disappointments, leading to further alienation for Said.

Imagery in Chapter 3

Contrasts between past and present emphasize transformation in Said’s relationships.
Unflattering animal imagery applied to Rauf’s appearance underscores Said’s disillusionment with his former mentor.### Color Symbolism
Blue connotes coolness, suggesting Rauf's cold-blooded nature.
Blue is associated with royalty, indicating Rauf's new high-society status.
Dark imagery creates a profound atmosphere, such as "leaving stars in a sky profoundly black."

Characterization - Chapter 3

Rauf Ilwan, Said's former mentor, is introduced as an antagonist after betraying his ideals for wealth.
Rauf's transformation is marked by his shift from a working-class hero writing about freedom to writing trivial topics like fashion.
Rauf's office symbolizes power; his position overlooks the common people, reflecting class disparity.
Rauf's new residence, "villa number 18," symbolizes his transformation and wealth.
Said expresses enmity towards Rauf's upper-class lifestyle, feeling alienated from society.

Themes - Chapter 3

Changing Times: Said feels left behind as society progresses while he remains static.
Truth is Not Constant: Perceptions of morality shift, affecting Said's identity and actions post-prison.
Betrayal and Treachery: Rauf's betrayal of Said symbolizes the loss of foundational relationships.
Compromise of Self for Money: Rauf's extravagant lifestyle reflects a moral compromise.
Prison Doesn't Change a Man: Said retains a thief mentality despite incarceration.

Sense of Place - Chapter 3

Zahra offices symbolize a busy and commercialized new world after Said's prison term.
Rauf’s home is described as luxurious, contrasting Said's past and symbolizing Rauf's new persona.

Plot - Chapters 1 & 2

Said is released from prison, confronting personal betrayals and a new, hostile environment.
He reflects on lost love, family, and the friends who allied with Ilish, the man who stole his life.

Plot - Chapter 3

Said notices a change in Rauf's writing style, now focused on materialism rather than meaningful content.
Their nostalgic reunion reveals tensions, with Said feeling both admiration and envy towards Rauf's success.

Plot - Chapter 4

Said feels Rauf is no longer the person he admired, experiencing disappointment and a sense of loss.
Said attempts to steal from Rauf, showcasing his desperation and reliance on old skills.

Sense of Place - Chapter 1

Cairo is characterized by bustling streets, with a mix of noise and cultural landmarks.

Themes - Chapter 1

Betrayal and Treachery: Central to Said's motivation for revenge against those who betrayed him.
Luck and Fate: Statements about fortune highlight Said’s desperation for a better life.
Influence of the Past on the Present: Said's reflection on his past shows nostalgia and caution.

Characterization - Chapter 1

Said is portrayed as consumed by hatred and revenge, especially towards his ex-wife and former friend.
Contrasts in feelings towards his daughter highlight a softer side amidst his bitterness.

Imagery - Chapter 1

Animal imagery throughout the chapter represents betrayal; often characterizing Ilish and Nabawiyya negatively.
Said's self-description uses positive animal traits to elevate his own self-image.

Plot - Chapter 6

Said collaborates with Nur to steal, indicating deepening moral ambiguity and continued criminal behavior.
Their interaction reveals complexity in both characters, showing their struggles with past identities.

Imagery - Chapter 6

The use of animal-like descriptions suggests a dehumanizing view of the upper classes and foreshadows darker events in the city.

Characterization - Chapter 6

Said and Nur both struggle with past ties; Said harbors anger against the wrongdoers in his life, while Nur clings to unreciprocated feelings for him.

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Description

Test your knowledge of Naguib Mahfouz's novel, 'The Thief and the Dogs'. This quiz covers key themes, characters, and the historical context surrounding the book's publication in 1961. Dive into the disappointment felt by the Egyptian people post-revolution through the lens of Mahfouz's work.