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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. The family name claimed by the Colonel has been "extinct" (25) for over how many years, according to the Old Man?

2. What piece of jewelry does the Colonel remove and give to the Old Man during Act II?

3. The Mummy is said to be unable to "tolerate even "(19) what sight?

4. Johansson marvels at the fact that which character is "itching to get in" the house "as if it were a paradise" (20)?

5. What kind of "medal" is the Colonel's "devoted servant" (25) said to have been awarded for his "long and faithful service" (25)?

Short Essay Questions

1. What two favors does the Old Man ask of the Colonel in return for paying off the Colonel's debts?

2. Discuss a moment in the play when a character uses a literary device in conjunction with the topic of animals.

3. What instruction does the Mummy give to the Old Man when she leaves him alone with the Colonel?

4. What events lead the Old Man to conclude that the "place is haunted" (21)?

5. Identify an instance of comic relief within the play and discuss its purpose.

6. Which character is depicted within the portrait in the Round Room and what is the portrait's symbolism?

7. How does Strindberg subvert traditional notions about family within Act II?

8. When the Old Man declares everything in the Colonel's house as now belonging to him, what items does the Colonel claim can never be taken away from him?

9. How is the theme of authenticity linked with a particular character within Act II and for what purpose does Strindberg make this connection?

10. Describe the statue that is part of the Round Room's set.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss Strindberg's treatment of truth, lies, and hypocrisy within the text of The Ghost Sonata.

Essay Topic 2

Could The Ghost Sonata be classified as a coming-of-age narrative in the form of a play? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Analyze the interplay between the resolution of The Ghost Sonata and one of the play's main messages. How does Strindberg make connections between these elements and how does their juxtaposition help them get across one main message of the play?

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