View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which character admits to reading poetry before a mirror?

2. According to Mr. Martin, who is Edward?

3. According to the Fire Chief, who puts out the Vicar's fires?

4. According to the Fire Chief, who rang the doorbell the third time?

5. Why does Mrs. Smith believe the Martins must have interesting stories to tell?

Short Essay Questions

1. What argument centers around the Watson family?

2. How are nonsensical words used in the play?

3. How does Mr. Smith know the Fire Chief?

4. Describe Mr. Smith.

5. Describe Mary.

6. Why does the Fire Chief leave the Smiths' house?

7. What satirical elements exist in the play?

8. Why are the Smiths angry with Mary when she announces the arrival of the Martins?

9. What is the purpose of the meaningless banter among the characters?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How is conversation utilized in the play? What topics are discussed throughout the conversation? How do characters interact with each other throughout the conversation? Is the conversation productive?

Essay Topic 2

What societal rules are broken in the play and how does the blatant disregard for other characters feelings reflect the value each character places on the others? Based on their actions within the society on stage, what value do the characters place on themselves? How does the disregard for others feelings contrast with the appearance of polite English society the characters attempt to emulate?

Essay Topic 3

How does the lack of logic affect the dialogue and action among the characters? What effect does illogical reasoning have on the stability of the conversation? List at three specific incidents involving illogical reasoning or behavior and discuss how each scene supports the theme of the play.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,117 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample