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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. For what do Laurel and Alan probe?

2. What does the author seem to be revealing in this scene?

3. What crisis that was just emerging during the writing of this play did the author seem to have in mind when writing this play?

4. What is Laurel's news?

5. What do Laurel and Ed do despite the presence of Alan and Arnold?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In the scene titled, "Fugue in a Nursery, Counter Subject," Arnold and Alan are resistant to joining Ed and Laurel in their "normal" Sunday routine. Choose one of the following topics and write a well-developed essay using specific examples both from the text and any research you complete:

1. Discuss how the term "Counter Subject" is used in musical compositions (particularly in the musical composition of a fugue) and how it is applicable to the action of this scene. Be sure to use specific examples and details.

2. Using the entire play as a source of material, outline Laurel's actions and manipulations, both implied and explicit, and discuss whether she has been successful and appropriate in her behavior.

3. Discuss the commonalities among all the main characters, (Arnold, Alan, Ed, and Laurel) as to their wants and needs as human beings in relationship. Can their needs/desires be universal to all humans? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

The second problem in "The International Stud: Scene 1," of which Arnold shares is the fact that he has gone through some betrayals. Discuss the following ideas in a well-developed essay using specific examples both from the text and any research you complete:

1. What is your definition of a betrayal?

2. Discuss a famous incident that you know of or that you research in which someone has betrayed someone else. What were the facts about the situation? Why do you think it occurred? Could the problem have been avoided?

3. Have you been betrayed by a family member or friend? Discuss as much of the situation as you are comfortable to do so and its resolution. Did your relationship change after the betrayal?

4. If you have not felt betrayed by someone in your life and cannot answer question three, discuss whether you have or would be willing to betray someone and for what reasons.

Essay Topic 3

In "The International Stud: Scene 2," the scene opens with Lady Blues completing a song. Discuss the following ideas in a well-developed essay using specific examples both from the text and any research you complete:

1. What do you think is the purpose of Lady Blues' character?

2. Some interpretations suggest she serves as a sort of "Greek Chorus." Research the role of a Greek Chorus and explain it and then give your idea as to how Lady Blues might be a sort of Greek Chorus?

3. What sort of mood do her songs establish? Do they foreshadow the mood of the following action?

4. Do you believe Lady Blues adds to the entire work or just distracts from the main action? Explain your rationale.

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