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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. What action does Weller take to try to mollify Fonsia as she is crying on the porch?

2. When is lightning used in the final scene of the play?

3. What signs does Weller show of possibly having a heart attack?

4. What does Weller accuse Fonsia of doing in Act 2, Scene 2?

5. When Fonsia confronts Weller about his ruse in Act 2, Scene 2, what is Weller's response?

Short Essay Questions

1. What has Fonsia done to Weller since their last meeting in Act 2, Scene 1 that has upset him?

2. Fonsia criticizes Weller for always blaming his failures on bad luck. How is this criticism true?

3. What word in particular was Fonsia daunted by when working?

4. In Act 2, Scene 1, the play takes place in the evening. What is the significance of this time change?

5. Towards the end of Act 2, Scene 1, Weller begins talking to himself. How is this 'craziness' foreshadowed?

6. In what way does the rain storm in Act 2, Scene 2 complement Fonsia's emotions?

7. What is the significance of the choir striking up in the last moments of the closing scene of the play? What kind of tune might they be singing?

8. Although Weller disagrees at first, why does Fonsia think he wants her on the porch in Act 2, Scene 2?

9. Given his behavior throughout the play, has Weller gone mad in Act 2, Scene 1?

10. How is Fonsia reminded of her mother in Act 2, Scene 1?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How is the game of gin in this play used as a metaphor for life?

Essay Topic 2

How does the poem 'As Leaden as the Aftermath of Wine,' by Alexander Pushkin relate to the play?

Essay Topic 3

Is Fonsia vindictive? Is Weller a failure? Please support your responses with examples from the play.

(see the answer keys)

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