View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Willy admire Dave Singleman?

2. What does Linda think will happen in Biff's meeting with Bill Oliver?

3. What promise does Willy believe Howard made to him during the Christmas party?

4. Where does Willy believe his company most needs him?

5. What does Howard say about his new wire recorder?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the importance of Howard Wagner's new wire recorder?

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

3. What is it that prevents Willy from accepting the offer of a job from Charley?

4. What is Linda's attitude to Willy's return?

5. Comment on Willy's "Dave Singleman" speech.

6. What important idea in the play is referenced by Linda's words, 'He could be--anything--in that suit!"?

7. What is revealed about teenage Biff's popularity with girls?

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

9. How does Biff respond to Happy's question about his plans for the future?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

"Willy Loman's life is a complete waste, as is his death." Explain and discuss the significance of this comment, referring closely to the play.

Essay Topic 2

Comment on the staging of the "internal scenes" in Death of a Salesman. How effective do you think these are? How important are they in the creation of drama? Are they necessary to understanding the characters? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

What function does Linda's character fulfill in the drama of Death of a Salesman? Is she the strongest character in the play? Back up your answer with at least three examples from the play, and explain why they are relevant.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,162 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample