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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. According to Linda, in what way does Willy compare with many other people?

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

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

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

5. What worrying news does Bernard bring?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why has Willy unexpectedly returned from his journey?

2. What does this conversation with Biff reveal about Happy's character?

3. How do the Lomans react to Bernard's news that Biff must study for his coming exams?

4. In the card game scene, what evidence of Willy's unused abilities is presented?

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

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

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

8. Comment about Willy's assertion that "I never in my life told him anything but decent things."

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

Essay Topic 2

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.

Essay Topic 3

"The ancient Greeks had a motto that said, 'Know yourself.' Death of a Salesman is a play about people who never understand themselves." To what extent do you agree with this statement? In your answer, refer both to major and minor characters in the play.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,116 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample