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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 problem do Reba and Roger have with watching Roger's television appearance?

2. What does Roger say is the only organism on Mars?

3. Where does the spaceship land?

4. What does Kreton seem to affectionately call the people in the house?

5. Why does Roger believe he has different rights than others?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the interview with Powers by Roger.

2. Describe the spaceship, as it is explained by the aide.

3. Explain Powers' complaint at the beginning of the play in terms of what he has been given as responsibility, and who he blames for the change.

4. What does Kreton do at the end of the Act that show his intentions?

5. What reasons does Kreton give for coming to Earth?

6. Explain why Roger is upset about Powers' revelations on the UFO, and what he tries to do about it.

7. How does raising the rifles in the world help to start a war?

8. What are the limitations placed on the Speldings as a result of Kreton's presence?

9. Ellen accuses Kreton of being a vampire of emotions. Do you agree?

10. Kreton states he envies humans for being imperfect. Why do you think he says that?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In the play, Conrad plays the role of a pacifist throughout most of the scenes. However, when faced with a man having sexual thoughts about his girlfriend, he becomes violent. What does this say about Conrad's character? About pacifism? Is he truly a pacifist? His reasoning is that everyone, at some point, loses control, but that this doesn't make them naturally violent. Do you agree? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

In the play, Kreton admits his race no longer has sex as a result of the immortal status. What does this mean for his race, in terms of personal relationships? Do you think relationships would be as rewarding without sex or passion? Why? Could this explain Kreton's lack of moral behaviors? Why or why not? What would a lack of personal relationships do, psychologically, to an individual? Why?

Essay Topic 3

There is a scene in the play in which Kreton is served breakfast by Ellen, which consists, in part, of bacon. Answer the following in relation to that scene.

1. What is Kreton's reaction to the bacon? Why? What is Ellen's response? What does this say about Ellen's opinions of eating meat? What does this say about Kreton's opinions of eating meat? What was Vidal trying to say by having the "superior" creature refuse to eat meat? Why?

(see the answer keys)

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