View a FREE sample

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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. When did Mr. and Mrs. Smith attend Bobby Watson's funeral?
(a) Two years before the time in which the play is set.
(b) The day before yesterday.
(c) Two months before the time in which the play is set.
(d) A year and a half before the time in which the play is set.

2. According to Mrs. Smith, why does she need to learn Spanish?
(a) To talk to Mr. Smith.
(b) To make herself understood.
(c) To read the newspaper.
(d) To chat with Mary.

3. In the last scene of the play, who would Mr. Martin like to slap?
(a) Mr. Smith.
(b) Ulysses.
(c) Mrs. Martin.
(d) Mrs. Smith.

4. When traveling to London by train, in which coach does Mrs. Martin sit?
(a) The Engine.
(b) Coach No. 1.
(c) Coach No. 2.
(d) Coach No. 8.

5. According to Mrs. Smith, what was saltier than the soup?
(a) The tarts.
(b) Mr. Smith.
(c) The biscuits.
(d) The air.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who briefly begins the play again after the last scene?

2. Why does Mr. Smith refuse to follow the advice he is given by the Fire Chief?

3. What does Mary claim is her real name?

4. When boarding the train to London, how did Mr. Martin assist Mrs. Martin?

5. Who is at the door when Mr. Smith opens it?

Short Essay Questions

1. What drama unfolds as the Martins wait for the Smiths?

2. How are the characters emotionally distant and disconnected?

3. What is the significance of the mirror?

4. What is the significance of the Martins beginning the play at the end of the drama?

5. Describe the protagonist and antagonist of the play.

6. What is the point of the story, "The Headcold"?

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

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

9. How are pity and fear used to evoke a response from the audience?

10. Describe the story of the calf that gave birth to a cow.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,338 words (approx. 5 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample