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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. In Act 2, Scene 1 Agnes asks Michael to do what for her?

2. What does the pillow in the bed have embroidered on it?

3. What secret does Agnes tell Michael on her wedding night?

4. Why does Agnes stop Michael from calling the doctor?

5. When Agnes is having labor pains, what does she remind Michael about?

Short Essay Questions

1. What message does Agnes want to tell the young couple by leaving the "God Is Love" pillow on the bed for them?

2. Why is Michael so scared of the birth of the baby?

3. In Act 1, Scene 2, who does it seem has taken the leadership role in the marriage?

4. How does the fourposter bed have importance in Michael's life before even meeting Agnes?

5. What does Agnes do while Michael is taking their things to the car?

6. What do both Agnes and Michael agree to do to calm down while waiting for their son to get home?

7. What unites Agnes and Michael in the attitude toward their son's behavior?

8. Why does Michael think it is a bad idea to leave the "God Is Love" pillow behind?

9. How does Michael describe his love for Agnes in Act 3, Scene 1?

10. What faults in parenting do Agnes and Michael depict for each other?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The sudden emergence into the realm of wealth is a life changing occurrence, and it affects the lives of Agnes and Michael. Use examples to support your response to the following:

1) How does the wealth and success of Michael's novel affect the lives and relationship of Michael and Agnes?

2) How do Agnes and Michael adapt to their new found wealth?

3) Does the author portray wealth to be a good or bad influence in people's lives?

Essay Topic 2

There are only two characters with a speaking part in the play, but the fourposter bed can be interpreted as a third character. Using examples to support your response, write an essay answering the following:

1) What ways does the fourposter bed resemble a third character on the stage?

2) How does the fourposter bed influence the events in the marriage between Agnes and Michael?

3) What is the significance of the giving of the fourposter bed to the newlywed couple as a conclusion of the play?

Essay Topic 3

Michael is a successful author who seeks approval of his work from his wife Agnes. Crass words from a young poet woo Agnes and bring jealousy from Michael, leading to the strengthening of the couple's marriage. Please respond with examples to the following:

1) In what ways does Michael's profession as author influence his relationship with Agnes?

2) How does Agnes' response to the written works of the young poet and the works of her husband affect her marriage?

3) Does the author seem to be using his life as an inspiration for the play?

(see the answer keys)

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