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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. In Act 2, Scene 1, what has changed about the decor in the room since the last scene?

2. Michael describes himself as a "male animal" that has done what?

3. In Act 2, Scene 1, Agnes proclaims that she does not care about what fact?

4. Michael says that Agnes has changed from a "princess" to a what?

5. What clothing are Michael and Agnes wearing in the very beginning of the play?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Agnes describe Michael's parenting?

2. What is the source of conflict between Michael and Agnes in the final scene of the play?

3. What does Michael turn around and do as he is about to leave to fetch the doctor?

4. At the end of Act 2, Scene 1, what is the status of Michael and Agnes' relationship?

5. What does Michael read to Agnes to help ease her labor pains?

6. What is Michael's gift to the new couple and where does he leave it?

7. What is the setting at the beginning of the play?

8. What does Michael say about his daughter's choice of husband and how has he dealt with the upcoming wedding?

9. In Act 1, Scene 2, who does it seem has taken the leadership role in the marriage?

10. Why is Agnes so melancholy at the start of Act 3, Scene 1?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The character of Agnes goes through many changes throughout the play. Beginning with her wedding night and ending with her gift at the end of the play, analyze Agnes' character by answering the following:

1) How is Agnes represented in her youth compared to her older years?

2) How has motherhood changed Agnes?

3) What ways have Agnes' religious beliefs influenced her decisions in life?

4) Is Agnes' character capable of acting selfishly? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

The setting of the play starts in 1890 and ends in 1925. This backdrop provides the author with the ability to use elements from this time period as an influence in the play. Answer the following with supporting examples:

1) What situations from the play are specific to the time period of the setting?

2) What situations from the play are unconditional in their setting and could take place in modern times as well?

3) How do the events and hardships of Agnes and Michael's marriage appeal to modern audiences, even though the setting of their marriage is a century in the past?

Essay Topic 3

The ups and downs of Agnes and Michael's marriage is illustrated throughout the play. Using supporting examples, answer the following:

1) Does the author portray an enduring marriage as something positive or negative?

2) What characteristics are a husband and wife supposed to learn in order to have a successful marriage, according to the play?

3) Is the marriage of Agnes and Michael realistically portrayed? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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