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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. What does Biff say would make him happy?

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

3. What derogatory comment does Biff make about Willy?

4. What worrying news does Bernard bring?

5. What is it that Happy says he has always wanted?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

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

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

6. As this scene (inside Willy's head) continues, what false idea does Willy peddle to his sons?

7. Why does Willy say '"Im always in a race with the junkyard!"?

8. Comment on the "gay and bright" music that is heard at the beginning of Act 2.

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

10. What is Willy's mood when he leaves for his interview with Howard Wagner?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

"The commercial world inhabited by Willy Loman is very different from that which operates in the twenty-first century. Willy's tragedy would be impossible today." Referring to the text and to your knowledge of today's world, either agree with or refute this statement.

Essay Topic 2

"Linda: 'It sounds so old-fashioned and silly, but I tell you he put his whole life into you and you've turned your backs on him.'"

Account for Biff's and Happy's treatment of their father, making close reference to the text.

Essay Topic 3

"Death of a Salesman shows us that there is no hope for the 'low man.'"Do you agree? Refer closely to the play. What does this play say about the American Dream?

(see the answer keys)

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