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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 does Gallimard fear when Toulon is talking to him?

2. What does Song say is one of a Westerner's favorite fantasies?

3. What does Song promise to Gallimard after her outburst?

4. In Madame Butterfly, how old is Butterfly?

5. What does Toulon believe about Gallimard?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Toulon approve of Gallimard's infidelity?

2. During Act 2, Scene 2, Song explains that although China has ruled the world in the past, it would be much more exciting to rule the contemporary world. What does this foreshadow?

3. How do the actions within the play prove Song's theory that all a man wants from a woman is to submit, and that will result in him recanting his demands?

4. How does Gallimard feel about having a baby with Song? How does he feel when he sees the baby for the first time?

5. Why is Song's invitation to for Gallimardto enter her apartment so serious for her?

6. Durig Act 2, Scene 1, Gallimard claims that although men watching a production of Madame Butterfly may resent the character of Pinkerton, very few would pass up the chance to be him. Why does Gallimard think this is possible?

7. In the opera, how does the character of Butterfly look on Pinkerton?

8. How does Toulon's view of the Americans and their actions reflect France's opinion of their place in this historic time period?

9. What are Chin's plans for Song after her time in the commune?

10. What happens when Gallimard sees Song naked for the first time?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Much of the characters' are driven by the culture they came from. There is a distinct role that the social backdrop plays in the storyline.

1. Describe the nature of the cultures that surrounds Hwang's story. Most noticeably, the Chinese and French influences. Is there any other cultures that have a personality within the plot? What are some of the characteristics we associate with each culture and how does Hwang play on them?

2. Which characters fit into their cultural stereotype? How has their culture played a part in building their personality? How does it play a part in their motives?

Essay Topic 2

Gallimard's sexuality plays a major role in the plot of the play.

1. What seems to be Gallimard's sexual relationship with his wife? How does it differ from what he shares with Song? How is it different from his sexual encounters with Renee? How about Isabelle?

2. What is the importance of the men's magazine model who strips for Gallimard in his fantasy?

3. Marc is conjured up to encourage Gallimard's lustful nature. Although their characters are different, how are their wants similar? Why does Gallimard feel the need to imagine these interactions with his old school friend?

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay on the climactic encounter between Gallimard and Song when he asks to see her naked for the first time.

1. When Gallimard leaves the reception where he had his encounter with Toulon, what is he feeling? What is the catalyst for his emotions?

2. What are the reasons Gallimard gives for wanting to strip Song? How does she react? Why?

3. How does Song talk Gallimard out of seeing her naked? What is at stake for her?

4. How is this moment pivotal in the life of the play and the relationship between Gallimard and Song? How do his feelings for her change?

(see the answer keys)

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