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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. While dancing with the young one in "Walpurgis Night," what vision does Faust claim to have had?

2. What does Mephistopheles mock to Faust after Gretchen leaves in "Martha's Garden?"

3. What does Gretchen believe about Mephistopheles?

4. What does Gretchen believe is on Faust's hand when she tries to hold it in her cell?

5. What does Valentine admit to Gretchen before he dies?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. Describe Faust's vision of Gretchen.

3. What purpose does "At the Well" serve in terms of story and character?

4. What is Walpurgis Night?

5. What comprises Valentine's final moments alive?

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

7. Describe the seduction of Gretchen up until the end of "A Forest Cavern."

8. Why is Gretchen praying to the Virgin Mary?

9. What is ironic about Mephistopheles's statement that Gretchen is doomed?

10. What visions do Faust and Mephistopheles claim to have to their dancing partners?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

Discuss the theme of temptation in "Faust" in the following format:

Part 1) Mephistopheles's conversation with God.

Part 2) Faust's bargain.

Part 3) The courtship of Gretchen.

Part 4) The consequences of giving into temptation.

Part 5) The decadent lifestyle of Faust and Mephistopheles.

Part 6) Gretchen's redemption.

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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