Desperate Hours belongs to the genre of drama. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using examples from the book as well as personal experience:

1. What do you think is the definition of drama? Write out your definition and then look up the definition in a literary dictionary. How similar are the two definitions?

2. Drama is written with the intention that it will be performed. How do you think this influences the manner in which the plot unfolds, the dialogue, the set complexity, the number of characters, and the length?

3. Compare Desperate Hours to a short story, such as "A Good Man is Hard to Find," by Flannery O'Conner. What are the differences? The similarities? Which do you enjoy reading the most?

Essay Topic 2

In Act 2, Griffin completely loses his composure after Hank leaves and blames the Hilliards' comfortable life as the impetus for Hank's change of mind. Griffin especially blames Dan, who he likens to his own father with his domineering ways and strict rules. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using examples from the book as well as personal experience:

1. Do you think the fact that Griffin blames the Hilliards for Hank leaving is just one aspect of his dysfunctional personality that leads him to prison? Discuss.

2. Many people, some criminal and other "normal" citizens often blame their parents for their problems. How much responsibility do parents have for the choices their children make as adults?

3. When is it time to stop blaming one's parents or upbringing for the mess one makes of one's own life?

Essay Topic 3

In drama, setting plays a little different role than in a novel or even a film. Most of the setting is limited because of the logistics of changing sets and the expense of creating very many different scenes. Answer the following questions in a well-developed essay using examples from the book as well as personal experience:

1. How do you think the rather limited setting of Desperate Hours affects the overall impact of the play?

2. Most of the action of the play takes place in the Hilliard's living room and upstairs. How would you maximize the creating of these two scenes for the most versatility and interest?

3. What other aspects of a play do you think is enhanced by limited setting? Give examples.

(see the answer keys)

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