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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 wrong with Biff whistling in the elevator?
(a) It annoys other people in the lift.
(b) It indicates he is irresponsible and childish.
(c) It indicates he is over confident.
(d) It is tuneless.

2. What does Willy tell Linda about his feelings for her?
(a) He says she is wonderful and that he does not deserve her.
(b) He says she is his support and his lover.
(c) He says she is his foundation and support.
(d) He says he loves her.

3. What promise does Willy believe Howard made to him during the Christmas party?
(a) That he would pay Willy a bonus.
(b) That Willy will receive a substantial pay rise.
(c) That he will let Willy head up a new branch in Yonkers.
(d) That he would try to find a job for him in town.

4. Making an inference from Linda's words, what do you think is Angelo's occupation?
(a) Attorney
(b) Loan shark
(c) Car salesman
(d) Motor mechanic

5. What sort of debts do Willy and Linda have?
(a) They are paying for roof repair and a new fan belt for the refrigerator.
(b) They are paying for roof repair and a new car.
(c) They are paying off household appliances and a repair of their roof.
(d) They have a heavy mortgage.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where was Ben living when he died?

2. At the beginning of Act Two, how does Willy express a new optimism?

3. Who does Linda refer to as "a philandering bum?"

4. Where does Willy get the money he says is his pay?

5. Why does Willy become annoyed with Linda?

Short Essay Questions

1. In what way does the commercial world intrude into the wire recorder demonstration?

2. What is the significance of the way the Loman house is presented when the play begins?

3. In the first few minutes of the play, what indications are there that Willy has an affinity with the artistic and creative?

4. What erratic behavior of Willy's indicates that he is disintegrating emotionally?

5. What reassuring news does Linda give Biff when he phones her?

6. What is Happy's attitude to the news that his father is contemplating suicide?

7. In what way is the contrast between Willy's dreams and reality expressed in his conversation with Linda?

8. What does the audience learn about Linda from her great confrontation with her sons in Act 1?

9. Explain the significance of Ben's words, "I have many enterprises, William, and I have never kept books."

10. In what picturesque way does Linda reinforce for Biff that his father needs support and nurturing?

(see the answer keys)

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