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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How does Mr. Martin bid the Fire Chief farewell?
(a) Smouldering, always smouldering.
(b) See you in cinders!
(c) Good luck, and a good fire!
(d) Burn well!

2. Why does the Fire Chief refuse to visit the Vicar of Wakefield?
(a) He doesn't have the right to extinguish clergymen's fires.
(b) His doorbell is broken.
(c) He does not have any tea.
(d) The Vicar is already insured against fires.

3. What is Mrs. Watson's profession?
(a) Voice teacher.
(b) Beautician.
(c) Grocer.
(d) Model.

4. Which line causes an abrupt break in the action?
(a) To hell with polishing!
(b) You are not old enough yet for that.
(c) Nevertheless, it was the cow that gave us tails.
(d) When I say yes, it's only a manner of speaking.

5. What does Mary want to tell the rest of the cast after all the stories have been told?
(a) They are ridiculous people.
(b) Her own story.
(c) It is time for bed.
(d) She wants to quit.

Short Answer Questions

1. On what street does Mrs. Martin live?

2. How does Mrs. Smith offer to help the Fire Chief?

3. What train does Mrs. Martin take to London?

4. According to Mrs. Martin, what can't a person buy for his grandfather?

5. What explanation does Mary give for leaving the house?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the conversation among the Smiths and the Martins change after the Fire Chief leaves?

2. What satirical elements exist in the play?

3. Describe the story of "The Snake and the Fox."

4. Describe Mary.

5. What point is Ionesco attempting to make about conversation?

6. What comedic coincidences exist in the play?

7. What official business has the Fire Chief visiting the Smiths?

8. What effect does the outcome of the play have on the characters?

9. Describe the plot behind Mrs. Smith's story of the man who bought flowers.

10. How are nonsensical words used in the play?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,253 words (approx. 5 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample