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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 is Ethel Chauvenet's reaction to Elwood Dowd's imaginary friend?

2. Betty Chumley and Wilson are left alone at the end of this scene. What do they talk about?

3. With whom does Veta Simmons speak next on the telephone?

4. Who does Dr. William Chumley call to verify the name of the patient to be admitted to the sanitarium?

5. How tall is Harvey, according to Elwood Dowd?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Dr. Lyman Sanderson think is best for Veta Simmons?

2. Why do you suppose Elwood Dowd insists on introducing Harvey to everyone?

3. Describe Elwood Dowd's feelings toward Ruth Kelly.

4. Given Veta Simmons' reactions to Elwood Dowd and her daughter, do you think she truly disbelieves her brother regarding Harvey?

5. According to Veta Simmons, to whom did her mother leave everything, including the mansion?

6. Veta Simmons explains to Dr. Lyman Sanderson that Elwood Dowd has some quirks, including drinking. What does this imply about Elwood Dowd?

7. Why is Dr. Lyman Sanderson mortified when he learns that Elwood Dowd has been sent upstairs at the sanitarium?

8. Is the relationship between the nurse and Dr. Lyman Sanderson purely professional?

9. Describe the nurse, Ruth Kelly.

10. Why does Veta Simmons ask her daughter to be especially nice to Ethel Chauvenet?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe briefly whether or not you feel Veta Simmons and her daughter were only putting up with Elwood Dowd and his invisible friend because he had inherited everything from his and Veta Simmons' mother, including the mansion? Please provide 2-3 examples from the text to support your thesis.

Essay Topic 2

What is it that finally makes Veta Simmons decide she is willing to accept Elwood Dowd just the way he is (Harvey and all)? Please explain your answers using the text where appropriate.

Essay Topic 3

Elwood Dowd's character is virtually unchanging throughout the play. What are the key elements of his personality that come out in each scene he's in? How does his demeanor compare to those around him who are "sane"? Why do you think this particular contrast is brought out by the author? Please support your answers.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 661 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample