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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 the purpose of the first section of the play?

2. What word best describes Medea's emotional reaction to Creon?

3. How does Medea think women generally feel?

4. What did Medea persuade the king's daughters to do in order to let Jason leave with the Fleece?

5. When did Medea kill for Jason?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Medea doubt her ability to trust Aegeus?

2. Do you think Aegeus will keep his oath to Medea if she kills everyone she plans to kill, and then seeks refuge in his land?

3. Is there any merit to Jason's justification of his behavior? Why or why not?

4. Why does Jason think his life is over?

5. What do you think the messenger means when he says the princess "smiled at the lifeless image of herself" in the mirror?

6. Why does Medea refuse to give Jason the bodies of their children?

7. What literary function does the Nurse serve by opening the play?

8. Do you think Medea gains or loses sympathy during her scene with the messenger? Why?

9. Is there any indication that, as Medea claims, the gods know the crimes Jason has committed against her?

10. It could be said that Medea represents a type of "Everywoman" as she comes to terms with her feelings over her husband's betrayal - do you agree or disagree with this assertion? Explain why.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

It appears as though, sympathetic or not, Medea is representing a type of "Everywoman" character. Argue for whether you believe Medea does or does not effectively represent an "Everywoman", using specific supporting details from the text to support your argument.

Essay Topic 2

Shed light on how the "deus ex machina" mechanic is used by the author to change the audience's perception of Medea and her behavior. Does this seem natural within the play or contrived? Is it effective as a method for changing the audience's perception of the character?

Essay Topic 3

Creon has a small amount of time on-stage, and yet his presence is important throughout the play. Discuss the importance of Creon as a character and thematic support within the play.

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