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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 did Frank hear coming from Alan's bedroom?

2. What is Dysart's answer to Alan's question about his dream?

3. Who does Jill describe as gentle as a baby?

4. How old is Alan?

5. What does the Horseman say Alan is doing when Frank asks?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does the first tape from Alan contain?

2. Describe the dream the Dysart has at the beginning of Scene 5.

3. Describe how Nugget reacts to Alan.

4. What does Alan have to say about the things he said when he was under hypnosis?

5. How does Alan react to Nugget as he is grooming him?

6. What does Alan say when he recounts his nonverbal conversation with that first horse?

7. What kind of deal does Alan make with Dysart?

8. What is includes in the content of Alan's letter to Dysart?

9. When Dysart asks Alan who took him first to the stables, what does Alan do?

10. Who does Dysart blame for some of his current self doubts?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The idea of making Alan normal seems to be the direction of the therapy and of the play itself.

Part 1: How is normal defined in this play by Dysart?

Part 2: How would Alan's parents each define normal?

Part 3: Do you think 'normal' is a realistic goal? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

The first time Alan encounters a horse is a memorable event for him. The Horseman helps Alan discover his love and longing for the animals.

Part 1: Why is this moment so important for Alan? What causes this moment to follow Alan the rest of his life?

Part 2: Why does Frank become so angry about this meeting with the Horseman? What does he do in response?

Part 3: What do you think of the Horseman? What does he seem to represent in Alan's life?

Essay Topic 3

The role of sex in this story is one that seems to cause a great deal of pain and worry in the characters, as well as relief and release.

Part 1: List three different ways or instances in which sex is revealed in this play.

Part 2: What are the outcomes of these instances? What do the characters involved learn from each of this instances?

Part 3: Is sex seen as a bad or a good thing in this play? Support your answer.

(see the answer keys)

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