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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. When Max sees Ruth for the first time, what does he ask Teddy?

2. What does Sam do before he leaves for work after lunch?

3. When Teddy and Ruth are left alone in the living room, how does he try to convince her to go home with him?

4. How many children does Ruth have?

5. After chastising Teddy for bringing Ruth into his house, who does Max ask to throw Ruth and Teddy out?

Short Essay Questions

1. According to Max, what did his father ask him to do when he was dying?

2. Describe Max's initial reaction to Ruth.

3. What violent action does Max take against Sam?

4. What comparison does Ruth make when referring to the relationship between words and actions?

5. For what does Max criticize Sam when Sam is in the kitchen?

6. What kinds of demands does Ruth make on the brothers?

7. As Act Two opens, what positive and negative comments does Max make about his late wife?

8. What does Teddy tell Max about his family life with Ruth?

9. What argument do Max and Joey have at the beginning of the Act 1, Scene 3?

10. Why does Max hit Joey?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss Teddy's acceptance of the photograph of his grandfather. Explain when the incident takes place and give two interpretations of why the playwright might have included this incident.

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast the characters of Max and Sam, two brothers who seem to represent totally opposite values. Include specific examples of their differences and their attitudes toward each other.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the impact of the character of MacGregor who, although never actually appearing in the play, has a profound influence on the family.

(see the answer keys)

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