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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Agnes seem to be feeling in relationship to her daughter?

2. What do Michael and Agnes feel is a pity?

3. What is Michael doing when he is first seen in the last scene?

4. What does Agnes want before becoming a grandmother?

5. What do Agnes and Michael decide not to do in the last scene?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The setting of the play starts in 1890 and ends in 1925. This backdrop provides the author with the ability to use elements from this time period as an influence in the play. Answer the following with supporting examples:

1) What situations from the play are specific to the time period of the setting?

2) What situations from the play are unconditional in their setting and could take place in modern times as well?

3) How do the events and hardships of Agnes and Michael's marriage appeal to modern audiences, even though the setting of their marriage is a century in the past?

Essay Topic 2

There are several examples of foreshadowing in the play. Michael and Agnes' son seems to take after his father, while Agnes' threat of an affair on her end almost becomes fulfilled. Using examples, respond to the following:

1) What examples of foreshadowing are used in the play?

2) What impact does this have on the relationship between Agnes and Michael?

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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