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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 Elwood Dowd's outlook when Wilson brings him to Dr. Lyman Sanderson?

2. How old is Elwood Dowd, approximately?

3. How does Elwood Dowd deal with his invisible friend?

4. What does Wilson read at the end of this scene?

5. Does Elwood Dowd order from Mrs. Greenawalt?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the nurse, Ruth Kelly.

2. What does Dr. Lyman Sanderson believe is Veta Simmons' motivation for coming to the sanitarium and telling him about Elwood Dowd and Harvey?

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

4. Why is Veta Simmons trying to get accepted by the town's society folk?

5. What does Ruth Kelly fear about "accidentally" committing Elwood Dowd earlier that day instead of his "crazy" sister?

6. Describe Elwood Dowd.

7. Why do you think Elwood Dowd invites Mrs. Greenawalt, a telemarketer, to his sister's party?

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

9. Why does Ethel Chauvenet react the way she does when introduced to Harvey?

10. How does Myrtle Mae Simmons feel about her uncle?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In much of the play, Elwood Dowd carries around a raincoat and hat, even though he is wearing a raincoat and hat. What does this say about Elwood Dowd as a person? Why would he do such a thing? Please support your thesis from the text.

Essay Topic 2

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.

Essay Topic 3

What is the significance of the strong presence of alcohol in Elwood Dowd's life? How do you think this would affect other people's acceptance of Harvey, given that Elwood Dowd drinks a lot? Is it important that the first "outside" person that actually interacts with Harvey is William Chumley, who goes out drinking with Elwood Dowd? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 648 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample