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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. According to Mrs. Cheveley, what do Englishmen always get after a good meal?

2. Who does Mrs. Cheveley say will have the loathsome joy of dragging Sir Robert down in the mud and mire?

3. What does Lord Goring say he gets rid of as soon as possible?

4. In Act 1, Part 3, what does Lady Chiltern tell Sir Robert he's always been?

5. What does Lady Chiltern say gives one an instinct to things?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Sir Robert say it was so important to him to achieve success when he was young?

2. Why does Goring tell Lady Chiltern that no one is incapable of foolish actions in Act 2, Part 2?

3. What does Lady Chiltern say Sir Robert contributes to the political world?

4. Why does Caversham think he should be the one to choose a wife for Goring?

5. What is Goring's reaction to Mabel's revelation in Act 1, Part 1, that she does not like Mrs. Cheveley?

6. What is Goring frustrated about as Act 4 opens?

7. Why does Sir Robert want to stay five more minutes at Goring's house in Act 3, Part 1?

8. What does Goring say is the difference between mothers and fathers?

9. Why does Mrs. Cheveley say she thinks the London season is too matrimonial?

10. Why doesn't Goring think women are meant to judge?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Mrs. Cheveley is clearly the antagonist of this play; however, the protagonist of the play isn't quite as clear since there are really three characters who undergo significant transformation through the course of the play. Identify who these three characters are and discuss the transformation each of them goes through. Provide evidence from the play to support your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Wilde is a master of using little details that initially seem insignificant to make important points. Name three instances in which he uses small details to make a point. Identify each detail and discuss what Wilde uses the detail to say.

Essay Topic 3

Wilde is well known for his use of wit for the purpose of political and social commentary. What comments on people, society, and politics does Wilde make in this play through the use of wit? Provide evidence from the play to support your answer.

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This section contains 629 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample