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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 interrupts Faust when he tries to commit suicide?

2. What is Wagner's relationship with Faust?

3. .0 0..........Mephistopheles has become bored because there is no challenge in ________ mankind anymore.

4. What must Faust step inside of in order to begin the spell to make him appear younger?

5. What is the fate of the box of jewelry when Gretchen shows it to her mother?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is the witch in a bad mood when she finally appears to Faust and Mephistopheles?

2. In the "Dedication," why is Goethe so wistful?

3. Describe the bargain between Faust and Mephistopheles.

4. Describe Faust and Wagner's relationship.

5. Describe the steps taken to make Faust appear younger.

6. During the second scene called "Faust's Study," what does Faust admit to Mephistopheles?

7. Why does Mephistopheles have no power over the girl with whom Faust is obsessed?

8. Why is Mephistopheles bored with and disdainful of mankind?

9. Describe the differing opinions of Gretchen, her mother, and Martha about the mysterious jewels.

10. What is the fate of the first box of jewels that Mephistopheles secretly leaves Gretchen and why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How does Goethe use "Faust" to critique society? Discuss this in the following format:

Part 1) People's relationship with God.

Part 2) God and Mephistopheles.

Part 3) The role of the church.

Part 4) The town's rejection of Gretchen.

Part 5) "A Walpurgis Night's Dream."

Develop a clear thesis and cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the use of foreshadowing in "Faust" in the following format:

Part 1) The debate between the director and the poet.

Part 2) God's belief that Mephistopheles's temptations will only bring people closer to Him.

Part 3) The crowning of Mephistopheles in relation to Gretchen's initial rudeness to Faust.

Part 4) The plights of Martha and Barbara.

Part 5) The tormenting of Gretchen in the cathedral.

Cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

Essay Topic 3

What is a "faustian bargain"? How is this used in everyday language? How does it relate to "Faust?" What is significant about the fact that this term has entered the vernacular in regards to the importance of the play itself on society? What does this suggest about not only Goethe's intent in writing this play, but about the character of Faust and his situation?

(see the answer keys)

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