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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. According to Musaget, what is easier to "govern than the Muses"?

2. During "Martha's Garden," what does Gretchen discuss with Faust?

3. What does Faust see around Gretchen's neck in his vision of her in "Walpurgis Night"?

4. Why does Valentine duel Mephistopheles and Faust?

5. Initially, what is the only thing Gretchen recognizes as Faust when he is in her prison cell?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the enormity of Gretchen's sorrows.

2. Describe Martha and Mephistopheles's interactions in "A Garden."

3. What does Faust admit to being jealous of and why?

4. Why does Gretchen refuse to escape from prison with Faust?

5. What does Faust fear in regards to his relationship with Gretchen about Mephistopheles?

6. Why is Gretchen unable to recognize Faust when he comes to her in prison?

7. How does Valentine react to Gretchen's plight, as well as the presence of Faust?

8. What does Faust ask of Gretchen during "Martha's Garden" and how does she (and Mephistopheles) react to this?

9. Why is Gretchen is prison?

10. Describe some of the characters in the chapter "Walpurgis Night."

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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?

Essay Topic 2

Write a brief essay about "Faust" as both a comedy and a tragedy in the following format:

Part 1) Definitions of comedy and tragedy.

Part 2) The tragic element of "Faust."

Part 3) The characterizations of "Faust."

Part 4) The comedic scenes.

Part 5) The satire and parodies found in "Faust."

Be sure to end the essay with a reiteration of your own conclusions on this question, and cite specific examples from the text to support your answers.

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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