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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 is Miss Prism's first name?

2. What German writer is Cecily studying at the top of Act II?

3. Whom has Gwendolen already contacted about her betrothal to Ernest?

4. How does Jack describe Algernon's eating in times of distress?

5. What does Miss Prism recommend to Chasuble?

Short Essay Questions

1. What news does Jack bring with him when he returns home from London.

2. After the two women storm off, what is Algernon's attitude?

3. How do Cecily and Gwendolen learn the truth about Ernest?

4. How does Cecily get rid of Miss Prism at the the beginning of Act II?

5. Why does Gwendolen state that she wishes Cecily were older?

6. How does Algernon get rid of Miss Prism when he wants say goodbye to Cecily?

7. How does Algernon end up paying for Jack's debt in Act II?

8. What does Cecily do to anger Gwendolen as they take tea?

9. Describe Cecily and Miss Prisms opposing views on writing.

10. What order does Jack give to Algernon after the women go in to lunch?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Choose one of the following topics to write about:

1.) What aspects of a person are important to a courtship according to Cecily? How do these differ from those of Lady Bracknell?

2.) What is Algernon's stated stance on romance and marriage in Act I? Why do you think he decides to propose to Cecily in spite of this position? Cite statements made by Algernon later to justify your argument.

3.) Gwendolen's statement about always wanting to marry a man named Ernest is absurd, but her reasons for liking the name are indicative of a desire everyone has when getting married. What are her reasons for liking the name and how do they indicate a universal desire of humankind?

Essay Topic 2

What is Oscar Wilde saying in the play about the power of wit and ingenuity? Does Wilde view this a central skill in overcoming social position. Use Jack Worthing a model in defense of your thesis.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay with the thesis that Jack Worthing's decision to hire Miss Prism before the play begins is the reason why the play ends happily. Use the three marriage's as a framing device for your argument.

(see the answer keys)

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