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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. What is Elesin doing when he realizes that his last day is almost over?
(a) Singing.
(b) Resting.
(c) Dancing.
(d) Feasting.

2. In whose home does the second scene take place?
(a) The resident of the prince.
(b) Joseph's.
(c) Amusa's.
(d) The Pilkings'.

3. Who do the Pilkings speak to for more insight to Amusa's report in Act 1, Scene 2?
(a) Elesin.
(b) Olunde.
(c) Iyaloja.
(d) Joseph.

4. How many deaths occur within the story?
(a) 1.
(b) 2.
(c) None.
(d) 3.

5. Whom does Soyinka blame for the tragedy of the story?
(a) The British.
(b) Iyaloja.
(c) Elesin Oba.
(d) The French.

Short Answer Questions

1. This term best describes Elesin's reaction/feeling toward Iyaloja's response after Elesin requests a wife.

2. What is proof of the new bride's virginity?

3. Where do the women of the market claim that the "official business" is happening?

4. In what style is the dialogue of the play written?

5. What is another name for the praise-singer?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who is Amusa and what is his role?

2. Where does Elesin choose to make his transition? Why does he choose this place?

3. What is the difference in music and dance in both societies? How can it be seen in the play?

4. Iyaloja enters Elesin's cell. Whom does she blame for Elesin's failure, and why?

5. Why is Elesin annoyed in the opening scenes of the play?

6. Why does Olunde return to the Yoruba people in Act 1, Scene 4?

7. How does Elesin react to Olunde's death?

8. How does Elesin become aware that it is time for his own death?

9. Explain the opening scene of Act 1, Scene 1. What do you find out about Elesin Oba?

10. Why does Pilkings believe that Elesin is upset while he is locked in the cellar in Act 1, Scene 5?

(see the answer keys)

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