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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 does Mr. Mayo threaten to do to Andrew if he finds him still at home in the morning?

2. Who has lost her fresh appearance at the beginning of Act 2?

3. What is Robert in search of during the sea voyage?

4. Who says "I've earned my right to quit when I want to?"

5. What does the main room of the farmhouse look like in Act 2?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are Ruth and Robert's reactions to the news that Andrew is sailing again the next morning on a ship for Argentina?

2. How does Andrew describe his feelings for Ruth as he and Robert sit on the hilltop discussing Andrew's travels?

3. What is the reason James tells Andrew to never return to the farm again?

4. How do Kate and James Mayo feel about Robert leaving on the voyage?

5. What reasons does Ruth give for wanting to talk with Robert alone at the fence the night before he is supposed to leave?

6. What do Andrew and Ruth do when they find Robert on the side of the road?

7. Why does Andrew think it's a good idea for Robert to go on the sea voyage?

8. How does Robert respond when Andrew says he's planning to return to Argentina?

9. Describe Robert's interests at the beginning of Act 1.

10. What does Robert say that the doctor told him to do to be cured?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the themes of bad luck/good luck. How do we see these themes used in the play? Who is most closely connected with bad luck and what does he hope for to turn his luck around?

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast the brothers' viewpoints about the sea voyage at the beginning of the play. Whose view is more practical? What do you think of Robert's reasons for going? Explain your viewpoint.

Essay Topic 3

Describe the relationship between Ruth and Robert. What made her believe she loved him? What causes her to change her mind? Do you believe that Robert continued to care for Ruth right up to his death?

(see the answer keys)

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