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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 does Elwood Dowd carry around with him?

2. What detail about Elwood Dowd does Veta Simmons originally reveal to Dr. Lyman Sanderson?

3. According to Elwood Dowd, what exactly IS his invisible friend?

4. In whom is Ruth Kelly interested?

5. What is the name of the main character's invisible friend?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do you think Elwood Dowd invites Mrs. Greenawalt, a telemarketer, to his sister's party?

2. Describe the nurse, Ruth Kelly.

3. How do Ruth Kelly and Dr. Lyman Sanderson interact throughout this scene? What does this reveal about their relationship.

4. Veta Simmons explains to Dr. Lyman Sanderson that Elwood Dowd has some quirks, including drinking. What does this imply about Elwood Dowd?

5. Why is Dr. Lyman Sanderson mortified when he learns that Elwood Dowd has been sent upstairs at the sanitarium?

6. What does Ruth Kelly fear about "accidentally" committing Elwood Dowd earlier that day instead of his "crazy" sister?

7. What does Dr. Lyman Sanderson think is best for Veta Simmons?

8. Given Veta Simmons' reactions to Elwood Dowd and her daughter, do you think she truly disbelieves her brother regarding Harvey?

9. According to Veta Simmons, to whom did her mother leave everything, including the mansion?

10. Why do you suppose Elwood Dowd insists on introducing Harvey to everyone?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How do you think a Pooka like Harvey determines who can see it and who can't? List three people from the play that have different levels of interaction with Harvey (can see him, only see him sometimes, cannot see him) and how that affects their attitude toward Elwood Dowd's sanity or lack thereof.

Essay Topic 2

Assuming that Harvey is real, as Elwood Dowd says he is, it creates an interesting theme in the play regarding how those with special knowledge (like Elwood Dowd) are treated by those without it (the rest of the characters). Looking at how the characters interact through this perspective, why do the other people in Elwood Dowd's life treat him the way they do? Are they feeling jealous, frightened, inadequate, or something else? Please support your positions from the text.

Essay Topic 3

What is it that finally makes Veta Simmons decide she is willing to accept Elwood Dowd just the way he is (Harvey and all)? Please explain your answers using the text where appropriate.

(see the answer keys)

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