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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. Why does Mephistopheles come to God in the "Prologue in Heaven"?

2. What does Mephistopheles advise Martha to do in terms of grieving her husband?

3. Why does Faust decide to turn to magic use?

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

5. What does the poodle refuse to do when in Faust's study?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What concerns does Faust have in regards to his bargain with the devil?

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

4. Why does Faust decide to try witchcraft in his first scene?

5. Describe the bargain between Faust and Mephistopheles.

6. What does Mephistopheles tell Martha about her husband when he visits them in disguise?

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

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

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the character of Gretchen in the following format:

Part 1) Innocence versus corruption.

Part 2) Her self esteem and the opinions of others.

Part 3) Temptation and empathy.

Part 4) The role of the woman to bring honor to the family.

Part 5) Her downfall and tragedy.

Part 6) Redemption.

Cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

Essay Topic 2

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.

Essay Topic 3

In a brief essay, discuss the roles of magic and witchcraft in "Faust." Develop a clear thesis statement and cite specific examples from the text to support your answers. Points that should be considered in this essay include (but not exclusively) the following: Faust's dabbling with magic, "A Witch's Kitchen," the celebration of Walpurgis Night, and Mephistopheles. Be sure to consider the symbolism behind these sections, as well as how magic and witchcraft help develop certain characters and themes within the play.

(see the answer keys)

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