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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. What does Michael change into after Agnes retreats to the bathroom on their wedding night?

2. In Act 1, Scene 1, what scent does Michael tell Agnes is on his breath?

3. What does Agnes hold in her hand that she has taken from her wedding cake?

4. Why is Agnes upset over Michael taking off her shoes?

5. When Michael and Agnes are first seen, what are they doing?

Short Essay Questions

1. In what ways does Michael show he cares for Agnes on their wedding night?

2. What is the nature of the young poet's poem and who is it apparently dedicated to?

3. How does Agnes describe Michael's parenting?

4. Why does Agnes have a rose in her hand?

5. What is Agnes' reaction to the declaration of Michael's true feelings towards her on the day of her daughter's wedding?

6. What is the source of conflict between Michael and Agnes in the final scene of the play?

7. What is the status of Michael and Agnes' relationship at the end of Act 3, Scene 2?

8. In the beginning of the play, does it seem as if Agnes and Michael truly love each other?

9. What does Agnes realize about the bourbon after Michael takes a swig of it?

10. What is Agnes' reaction when Michael recounts his encounter with their son?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Jealousy has a role in the marriage of Agnes and Michael. It motivates Michael and Agnes to act in certain ways. Use examples to support your response to the following:

1) What examples of jealousy are found in the play?

2) How have the consequences of the jealous actions of Michael and Agnes affected their marriage?

3) Has the author represented jealousy as a positive or negative force? Why?

Essay Topic 2

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?

Essay Topic 3

The "God Is Love" pillow is first introduced as a wedding present to Agnes, who leaves it as a gift for the newlywed couple at the end of the play. Using examples to support your answer, compare and contrast the following:

1) What does the "God Is Love" pillow mean to Agnes throughout the play?

2) What does the "God Is Love" pillow mean to Michael throughout the play?

(see the answer keys)

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