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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. Where does Paulina go after rummaging through the drawer?

2. Who does Roberto mention as being gone at the moment?

3. What does Paulina call Roberto?

4. What invitation does Gerardo extend to Roberto?

5. What does Roberto have in the trunk of his car?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Roberto tell Gerardo about his stopping at their house?

2. What does Paulina say about Schubert to Roberto?

3. What does Paulina do when she comes inside the first time from talking to Gerardo on the terrace?

4. Why do you think Act 1, Scene 3 has no dialogue?

5. What does Paulina say to Roberto about breakfast?

6. What is Gerard doing with Paulina on the patio at the beginning of Act 3, Scene 1, that she had started before and what interrupted them before?

7. What does Paulina say to Gerardo's wanting Roberto to explain his side?

8. How does the play, DEATH AND THE MAIDEN, open?

9. What does Roberto say about Paulina's accusations?

10. What does Gerardo say when they realize how late it is and how does Roberto respond?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The fact that this scene is set just before dawn could be symbolic of the dawn of realization that Roberto is not exempt from retaliation for his past deeds.

1. Why do you think the dawn could symbolize justice for Roberto?

2. At this point in the play Paulina is convinced Roberto is guilty, though Gerardo is not. As a reader do you believe Paulina's assertion? Why or why not?

3. If dawn might symbolize justice, could it also symbolize bringing the past to light? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

Paulina works herself into an excited fervor over the prospect of these individuals being punished or executed.

1. What do you think is the difference between revenge and justice? Use examples from the play and/or your life to support your answer.

2. Do you think Paulina's excitement is due to wanting revenge or wanting justice? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Paulina still wants to know how many times Gerardo slept with the other woman. He finally admits to doing so a total of five times. He asks if she truly wants them to torture each other in this way.

1. Why do you think Paulina would try to get a specific number out of Gerardo?

2. What do you think of Gerardo's character after finding out he was with another woman while she was being tortured? Why?

3. Do you think it was easier or more difficult for Paulina to forgive her husband for being with another woman because she was in prison? Would it have been more difficult, do you think, if she had been at home? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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