We are left wondering whether she would actually shoot him at the end of Act 2, Scene 1. Or would Gerardo forget something in the house and return to stop her? We are then forced to literally look at ourselves and those around us. What would each of us do in the same situation? Would we shoot, or let him live the rest of his days with his terrible secret?

1. Do you think you would do what Paulina is doing in her circumstances? Why or why not?

2. Do you think living with what he has done is worse punishment than killing him? Why or why not?

3. If you were a police officer called to the scene of Paulina killing Roberto, after listening to the confession, what would you do? Why?

Essay Topic 2

Paulina has said she wants Gerardo to defend the truth on the Investigating Commission.

1. What do you think she meant by this statement? Use examples from the play to support your answer.

2. Do you think Paulina believes Gerardo is too weak to insist on the truth if she isn't pushing him? Why or why not?

3. Do you think the truth should be more important to Gerardo than it is? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Roberto asserts that Gerardo's wife needs psychiatric treatment. Gerardo assures him that he is her treatment.

1. Based on what you've seen thus far of Paulina's actions, do you think she needs psychiatric treatment? Why or why not?

2. Do you think needs psychiatric treatment would be beneficial to anyone who has undergone torture? Why or why not?

3. Do you think a husband should be trying to act as his wife's psychiatrist? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 477 words
(approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page)

View a FREE sample

More summaries and resources for teaching or studying Death and the Maiden.

View all Lesson Plans available from BookRags.

Copyrights

BookRags