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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 one possible reason for Alceste's harsh words about Oronte's sonnet?

2. Why does Basque answer the door at Celimene's house?

3. What do we know about Célimène's past?

4. What word best describes the duration of Act 2, Scene 2?

5. In Act 2, Scene 3, who also comes to visit Célimène?

Short Essay Questions

1. Based on the remarks of the other characters in Act Two, Scene Four, what is said about Celimene's personality?

2. In Act 4, Scene 4, Alceste and Celimene are once again interrupted during an important conversation. Who interrupts them, and why?

3. Based on the events in Act One, Scene One, what can the reader infer about Alceste's personality?

4. Why does Clitandre make fun of Acaste in Act 3, Scene 1?

5. Celimene is finally asked to make a decision about a suitor in Act 5, Scene 2. Who confronts her, and why?

6. Why do Oronte and Alceste confront Celimene?

7. In Act 2, Scene 2, Alceste is in the middle of his argument with Celimene when Basque announces a visitor. Why does Celimene invite the visitor inside? Explain.

8. Act 3, Scene 2, is an example of a transitional scene. From what is the audience being transitioned?

9. Celimene is unable to make a decision about whether she prefers Alceste or Oronte. Why do you believe she cannot decide?

10. What is Celimene's response when Alceste confronts her about the letter to Oronte?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Based on the play, why do you think Celimene continues to see so many suitors? Why doesn't she want to settle down? Provide evidence from the play to support your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Describe Oronte's sonnet. What is the sonnet about? Who is it written for? How does Alceste feel about the sonnet? What does Alceste tell Oronte he thinks about it? What is the specific reason this sonnet is not good?

Essay Topic 3

How do you explain the extreme negativity and irritability of Alceste's character? What signs in the play indicate depression? Be sure to explain whether he is clinically depressed or if his perceptions are the reason for his behavior.

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