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Reading quiz

Bartleby, the Scrivener

Herman Melville

Type

Short story

Published

1853

Questions

3 with answers

Access

Free

AP LiteratureCommon CoreCommon Core ElaIB EnglishIB Language & Literature

Curated set · answers marked

In Herman Melville's "Bartleby, the Scrivener," what is the most famous response Bartleby gives when asked to complete a task?

A"I cannot do it."
B"I would prefer not to."✓
C"It is not my concern."
D"Leave me be."

In Herman Melville's "Bartleby, the Scrivener," what does Bartleby consistently say when his employer requests him to carry out a task?

A"I cannot do that, sir."
B"I would prefer not to."✓
C"That is not my duty."
D"I am otherwise engaged."

In Herman Melville's "Bartleby, the Scrivener," what is Bartleby's go-to reply whenever his employer asks him to do something?

A"I am unable to comply."
B"I would prefer not to."
C"I shall not do it."
D"I do not wish to oblige."

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