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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 is Happy's reaction to the news that his father has been attempting suicide?

2. For how long was Linda unable to contact Biff?

3. What important admission does Willy make to Charley?

4. According to Willy, what has left him unsettled and "temporary?"

5. At what time does Happy give Linda some money?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. In what way is Linda realistic about life?

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

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

"Death of a Salesman is a savage indictment of commercial values." Discuss with close reference to the play.

Essay Topic 2

What is Willy Loman's philosophy of life? In what ways is this significant in his relationships and his fate?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the nature and importance of friendship, making close reference to relationships in Death of a Salesman. Make sure to analyze the relationships between Willy and his sons, the sons and each other, and Willy and Linda.

(see the answer keys)

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