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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. Thomasina's discussion of rice pudding proves, in her words, that _______________________.

2. Why does Septimus describe Noakes as the serpent in the garden?

3. Where does the play take place?

4. Why does Brice want Septimus to accept Chater's challenge?

5. Who enters the scene uninvited?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Augustus return to Septimus at the end of Thomasina's lesson?

2. What is Lady Croom's reason for inviting Septimus to her sitting room?

3. Describe the relationship between Lady Croom and Thomasina.

4. What is Bernard's attitude about teaching?

5. What does Hannah plan to do about her discovery?

6. What occurs between Hannah and Gus at the end of the scene?

7. Why have the Chaters and Captain Brice gone off together?

8. How does Septimus manage to placate Lady Croom about his own behavior?

9. How does Chloe respond to Bernard's reading?

10. Describe Valentine's view of Bernard's article.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Socrates said, "The greatest way to live with honor in this world is to be what we pretend to be." Consider the concept of honor or honorable behavior in Stoppard's play, and write an essay in which you defend, refute, or qualify Socrates' quote, using evidence from the play to support your argument.

Essay Topic 2

Consider Stoppard's stage directions in Arcadia, specifically his use of one common set to bridge the two eras. Write an essay in which you defend or criticize this storytelling strategy as it relates to his themes.

Essay Topic 3

Consider the title "Arcadia," and Septimus' translation "Even in Arcadia, there am I," implying that death is present even in any idyllic setting. In what ways is Sidley Park a seemingly idyllic setting, and how does Septimus' translation impact that idea? Write an essay in which you explore both ideas, using examples from the text to support your argument.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 797 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample