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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. For what are the archangels praising God in the beginning of the play?

2. Why does Gretchen believe people tell her that she is beautiful?

3. For what reasons do Faust and Mephistopheles visit a witch?

4. What is Faust's reaction to the chorus of spirits in the first scene called "Faust's Study?"

5. After their pact is signed, what doubts does Faust voice to Mephistopheles?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the poodle behave before transforming into Mephistopheles?

2. What debate arises between Mephistopheles and God in regards to Faust?

3. Why is Mephistopheles initially held prisoner by Faust and how does he escape?

4. How does Faust feel about the mystery girl he sees in the mirror and in the street?

5. What does Wagner note about the townspeople he and Faust walk with on Easter, and how does Faust dispute his thoughts?

6. For what reasons does the director decide that the audience should experience a journey from heaven to hell in this play?

7. What happens when Mephistopheles and Faust go to the tavern in Leipzig?

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

9. Describe the argument between the director, the clown, and the poet in "Prelude on the Stage."

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write a brief essay about the role of Faust as an "everyman." Develop a clear thesis statement, as well as a definition for the term "everyman." Apply the definition to Faust by using strong examples from the text. Explain how Faust's role as an everyman allows accessibility for the reader to identify and sympathize with the titular character, as well as reconciling this status with his more questionable actions.

Essay Topic 2

What significance does the Easter holiday play in "Faust"? How do the hymnals affect the titular character and why? What are some connotations associated with Easter that can be applied, literally or ironically, to "Faust"? How does the Easter celebration reveal Faust's deep insecurities and regrets in life? Discuss these ideas in an essay (do not limit yourself to simply answering these questions). Develop a clear thesis statement and cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

Essay Topic 3

How does Faust's innate skepticism of higher powers help lead to his downfall? How is this related to his agreement to Mephistopheles's bargain? In addition to his doubts about Mephistopheles's power, why does this lead Faust into a troubled relationship with God? How and why does Faust retain this skepticism throughout the play? What does this suggest about his character as a whole? Discuss these questions (though not exclusively) in a brief essay about Faust's skepticism while using strong examples from the text to support these arguments.

(see the answer keys)

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