View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. According to Gross and Hana's discussion, what is strange about Ptydepe, the new language being introduced?
(a) It uses numbers in place of certain letters.
(b) It contains no vowels.
(c) Hana understands it perfectly.
(d) Gross knows nothing about it.

2. What leads to Ballas and Gross switching positions?
(a) A bet that Gross loses.
(b) Gross' lack of Ptydepe proficiency.
(c) A decision from the higher-ups.
(d) The Staff Watcher's report.

3. What does Helena's constant need for Maria to help her make coffee symbolize?
(a) That she has no regard for Maria's time.
(b) That she really likes coffee.
(c) That the people who have power cannot do anything for themselves.
(d) That she is impatient.

4. Where does Act 1, Scene 3 take place?
(a) The Department of Authenticity.
(b) The Ptydepe Classroom.
(c) The Ptydepe Translation Center.
(d) The Accounting Office.

5. What do Ballas and Gross argue about?
(a) Gross' refusal to understand Ptydepe.
(b) Ballas' salary.
(c) The Staff Watcher's report.
(d) The termination of Ptydepe.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which phrase best describes the clerk's actions?

2. What does Stroll tell Gross is necessary in order to prevent any further individualism?

3. What does Gross fear if he does not agree to the switch?

4. Who does the clerk's questions impress?

5. In defense of Ptydepe, what does Ballas declare the new language is far more of than the current one?

Short Essay Questions

1. Where does Gross pass through in Act 2, Scene 8, what is he carrying, and what does that represent?

2. What is both ironic and significant about Pillar's outburst at the end of Act 2, Scene 10?

3. What subtle things does Ballas do to maintain his power?

4. The "wrong cause" that Stroll, Savant, and Helena are upset about dedicating their lives to is really a symbol for what larger "wrong cause?"

5. Describe two main methods that Ballas uses in Act 1, Scene 4 to get Gross to comply?

6. What does Havel use the reference of a theater to symbolize?

7. In the final scene of the play, what theme is brought to the forefront and what is the message Havel delivers?

8. What does Gross' signature of the Ptydepe authorization set into motion?

9. How is Gross manipulated again in Act 1, Scene 5?

10. What are the noticeable habits of Hana, the secretary, that are displayed in the beginning of the play?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,065 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample