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

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Hildy accuse Burns of in Act 3, Part 1?

2. What is the signal that Williams is safe, according to Burns at the beginning of Act 3, Part 1?

3. According the mayor in Act 2, Part 3, what isn't real?

4. The purpose of Act 2, Part 3 is to illustrate what major difference in the characters of Hildy, the mayor, and the sheriff?

5. Where does Woodenshoes tell Hildy that Williams is likely to be in Act 2, Part 4?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Hildy and Burns are two characters that conflict with each other, yet seem to find common ground throughout the play. Chronicle their interaction, using examples to highlight the major differences between the two characters, and any similarities. How does Burns, in a way, help Hildy make his decision at the end of the play?

Essay Topic 2

Explain how Hildy's actions in Act 1, Part 3 seem contradictory. Use a description of the events in the Act 1, Part 3 to illustrate the contradiction. Also, include possible reasons for it. What does it say about Hildy's character?

Essay Topic 3

In Act 2, Part 4, Williams escapes from jail, causing Hildy to act on his reporter's instincts and choose to follow the story. Analyze his decision at that point in the play based on two factors:

1) Was the decision made purely out of instinct, or did he consider the alternatives, and consciously make it?

2) What is the association between Hildy's character and his decision? Based on the kind of person he is and the values he has, did he really have a choice? Why or why not?

Be sure to include specific examples from the play to support your opinions and analysis.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 390 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample