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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. Which character is by herself as Act 2 begins?

2. What does Millie do that Rosemary thinks is scandalous?

3. What do the women find shocking about Hal?

4. What does Flo tell Madge not to allow any ____________ when the girls go out tonight.

5. What does Flo comment on when she comes out onto the porch?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Rosemary's pleading behavior show about her true needs?

2. Explain how Millie and Madge have exchanged roles in Act 2.

3. How does Hal enter the scene to talk to Madge?

4. Explain Madge's confusion regarding making love to Hal earlier tonight.

5. How does Alan respond when Madge apologizes for not going to the picnic the night before?

6. What is the mood between Howard and Rosemary when they arrive home?

7. How has the foreshadowing of the train come full circle for Madge by the end of the play?

8. How has Rosemary's brutal honesty changed the way in which Howard perceives her?

9. What does Millie dream of when she hears the train whistle in the distance?

10. How does Madge hurt Hal when he kisses her goodbye?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The role of the family is an important element in this story. Cite three examples noting the role of the family in general. Then cite three examples that showcase characteristics of a family in America during the post-World War II era.

Essay Topic 2

There is much symbolism in this story regarding the train whistles. What do the train whistles symbolize for Madge and Millie? What do they ultimately symbolize for Flo?

Essay Topic 3

Even though they are sisters, Madge and Millie seem very different. Compare and contrast Madge and Millie. What similarities do they share? How are they different?

(see the answer keys)

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