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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 reason does Padmnini give to Devadatta for changing her mind about their trip to Ujjain?

2. As Devadatta is explaining to Kapila why they are not going to Ujjain, what does Padmini come in saying that surprises them both?

3. What happens between Devadatta and Padmini soon after Kapila visits her?

4. How does Kapila feel when Devadatta calls him back so he can tell him about this new woman?

5. Who enters first after the Bhagavata completes his song to introduce his story to the audience?

Short Essay Questions

1. What happens when the Bhagavata sees Hayavanda behind the curtain with the body of a man and the head of a horse?

2. What does the Bhagavata order Nata to do after he tells him what he saw on his way to the performance when he stopped to relieve himself?

3. What does Hayavadana tell about who his mother married?

4. Why does Nata return a second time in Act I after the Bhagavata sends Nata off stage and begins to tell the story?

5. What does the Bhagavata tell Hayavadana about the Goddess Kali in Act I?

6. After Devadatta and Padmini marry, how does Padmini’s behavior around Kapila make Devadatta jealous?

7. What does the Bhagavata ask Hayavadana when he learns that his head is real and not a mask?

8. Why is Devadatta distracted when Kapila tries to tell him about the wrestling match Devadatta missed the night before?

9. What happens when Kapila, Devadatta, and Padmini stop near the Fortunate Flower Tree?

10. What does the Bhagavata say he thinks perhaps Ganesh’s appearance is to signify?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Analyze the significance the two dolls have on the play Hayavadana. What is their purpose? What do they add to the story visually, structurally, or thematically?

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay explaining the significance of the title of Hayavadana. How does the title support the overall narrative tone and theme of the play?

Essay Topic 3

Early on in the play the Bhagavata breaks the fourth wall by addressing the audience. What impact does this have on the play? Why do you think the author chose to violate this performance convention.

(see the answer keys)

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