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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 the final scene at the end of Act 1, what does Tillie carry in from the front door?

2. Which of the following phrases best describes Nanny's relationship with Beatrice?

3. What type of beverage is Beatrice drinking when the final scene in Act 1 begins?

4. Why does Beatrice look for candles following the scream from upstairs?

5. Which character appears for the first time when Beatrice is reading the newspaper?

Short Essay Questions

1. Is Beatrice of sound mind?

2. Compare Janice Vickery's presentation at the science fair to Tillie's.

3. Why does Beatrice not tell the truth to her daughters about her experiences in high school?

4. List some of the advice Beatrice gives Tillie before the science fair.

5. What is the history folder, and what information does it contain?

6. When Beatrice receives a call from Dr. Berg, what is her response?

7. Why does Beatrice refuse to allow Tillie to call the doctor when Ruth falls into a seizure?

8. What does Tillie's monologue in the first scene of Act 1 reveal about the girl?

9. What is the business scheme that Beatrice is preoccupied with in Act 2? According to Beatrice, what role will her daughters play?

10. Is Beatrice is a good mother?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explore the concept of conformity versus individuality in Zindel's play. In what ways do the characters conform to society's expectations of them? In what ways do they remain independent? Which character conforms the most? Which character conforms the least?

Essay Topic 2

In what ways does Beatrice seek or crave respect? Why does Beatrice claim that she was one of the most respected students in high school? What is revealed later on in the play that refutes this statement? When Beatrice spars with Ruth in Act 2, she states that she demands nothing else but respect from Ruth. Why is this so important to her? Does Beatrice treat her daughters with respect? Does Beatrice treat anyone else with respect? Does Beatrice respect herself?

Essay Topic 3

Why does Beatrice kill the rabbit? What is her motivation? Is it an act of retaliation? If so, for what? What impact does this act have on Tillie and Ruth? What does the rabbit symbolize in the play?

(see the answer keys)

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