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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 Lenny say when Ruth asks how he knew the prostitute was diseased?

2. Where does Ruth say she and Teddy have been vacationing?

3. What does Ruth call Lenny?

4. What does Lenny say he did to the old woman instead of helping her?

5. How does Max respond to Lenny's question right after Max wakes up?

Short Essay Questions

1. Throughout the play, Max verbally abuses his son Joey; give an example of this verbal abuse.

2. After Lenny tells Ruth the story about a violent act he once committed, what story does he then tell Ruth about about an old woman?

3. When Lenny first greets his brother, why does the conversation involve a clock?

4. What conflicting information does Max give about MacGregor (his father)?

5. Which characters, although not seen onstage, are mentioned frequently throughout the play, and how is each related to Max?

6. When Teddy arrives at his family's home, what does he find unchanged?

7. What does Lenny ask his father about the night he was conceived?

8. What story Lenny tells Ruth after he has asked to hold her hand?

9. Describe Max's attitude toward his brother Sam.

10. What evidence do we have that Max dominates his brother Sam, as well as his own sons?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Although Max is a poor example of a father, he seems to know what a father should be. Discuss some specific examples of his fathering skills and explain what proof exists in the play that he seems to understand what makes for a good father. Why do you think Max chooses to father in the way he does? Give examples from the play back up your reasoning.

Essay Topic 2

In your opinion, which character is in the best position to make positive changes in the family's dynamics? Explain why you have chosen this character and what specifically you think this character could possibly do to bring about some change.

Essay Topic 3

The subject of prostitution comes up several times during the play. Give at least two examples and explain what larger implication this subject carries.

(see the answer keys)

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