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

Short Answer Questions

1. Why have Edward and his peers not arrived in Ireland?

2. Which of the following allies does Mortimer intend to have killed after Edward II is dead?

3. Where does Kent intend to travel in Scene 1?

4. What word does Kent protest that he will not use to address Edward II?

5. What does Edward III want to do at the beginning of Scene 2?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay on the representation of evil in Edward II. Begin with the character of Lightborn as Marlowe's demonic creation; then examine some of the more subtle and ambiguous forms of evil in the story. Are there any major players that are completely malevolent? Does almost every major figure display some capacity for evil deeds? What is Marlowe saying about human nature with this cast of characters?

Essay Topic 2

The relationship between Gaveston and Edward II is both intense and ambiguous. Write an essay about it, dissecting its purpose within the plot. Does Gaveston ever make mention of his social advancement through Edward? What are the nobles' concerns regarding him? Does Marlowe ever make explicit reference to homosexuality in the play? What does Edward's passionate attachment to Gaveston represent in the world of the play?

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay examining the motivations and essential character of Mortimer Junior. What are his grievances against the King? Are they well-founded, and does he defend them in reasonable ways? Is he, in the end, merely an ambitious charlatan who wants only to consolidate power? Is ahe a concerned peer of England? Does he exist somewhere in between? Cite from the text to defend your position.

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This section contains 321 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample