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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. Where is the beginning of Act Two set as the play opens again?

2. Who does Yelena say has real talent and a real vision, and that he must be cared for?

3. Sonya says that it's a shame that she's not __________ as she is so in love with Astrov.

4. Who does Astrov invite to drop in on him at his small estate, and this person says that staying in the trees can not be exciting?

5. What does Sonya reveal that the Astrov does every year and that he has been recognized for doing?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does the Professor think is the reason for his sudden shortness of breath as he is asking for a book?

2. What does Yelena tell Vanya to do after an awkward moment with Astrov?

3. What does Vanya say in response to the Professor's apology to him after he too apologizes?

4. What is Vanya's complaint about his life since the Professor and his wife arrived at the house?

5. What happened when Astrov, in his memory, tried to operate on a patient who died on the table?

6. What is Astrov's reasoning behind his constant drinking when Marina asks him about this habit?

7. What does Yelena say when Vanya comments that she staggers as she walks from sheer laziness?

8. What does Astrov return to the room with after Sonya has coaxed him into coming over to them?

9. Why doesn't the Professor want the two women to go and to leave Vanya alone with him?

10. What does Vanya announce to everyone else in the room at the beginning of this scene?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

It's pointed out that Vanya used to have convictions, but he doesn't seem to have any anymore.

Part 1: Do you think it's important for a person to have convictions? Why or why not?

Part 2: Why do you think Maria is concerned that Vanya doesn't have convictions anymore?

Part 3: Do you think you have convictions right now? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

In this play, there are instances of love that has gone unrequited, though some of the people know about the feelings others have for them.

Part 1: Why do you think these characters have hesitated in being with the ones they truly love?

Part 2: Do you think it's too late for these lovers to do anything about their feelings? Why or why not?

Part 3: What might have happened in the play if everyone was with the person they loved?

Essay Topic 3

The storm seems to be a symbol of the anger and frustration in the group of people in the play.

Part 1: Why do you think a storm is a good representation of conflict amongst people? Or isn't it?

Part 2: Do you think the group of people changes after the storm passes? Why or why not?

Part 3: Why do you think Chekhov decided to use the storm in the play versus another event?

(see the answer keys)

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