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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. As a result of Gross' incorrect answers, what does Lear deny him?
(a) The memo translation.
(b) Further classes on Ptydepe.
(c) His previous position back.
(d) A cigarette.

2. What point is the author trying to make by having Hana make separate trips for food?
(a) She is wasting time, but no one realizes it.
(b) They don't have money in the budget for a new log book, but there is money for food.
(c) She is always hungry.
(d) Gross has no control over her.

3. What does Gross finally concede to do in Act 1, Scene 4?
(a) Talk to the Staff Watcher.
(b) Authorize the continued use of Ptydepe.
(c) Purchase a new rubber stamp.
(d) Apologize to Stroll.

4. What is Gross' main concern that leads him to become angry in Act 1, Scene 6?
(a) The stupidity of Ptydepe.
(b) The unfair treatment of Maria.
(c) The abuse of power that Ballas is showing.
(d) The complicated process of getting a translation.

5. The parallels Havel draws in Act 1, Scene 4 are between Ballas and what?
(a) Irrational thinking.
(b) Bureaucracy.
(c) Incompetence.
(d) Hypocrisy.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Stroll exit in Act 1, Scene 3?

2. Who does Gross talk to while he is waiting for Helena?

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

4. What does the clerk receive for asking the questions?

5. Why is Savant "unable" to offer Gross any coffee?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is different about Thumb's responses in Act 2, Scene 8 as compared to earlier in the play?

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

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

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

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

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

8. What are two main issues that Gross has with Ptydepe in Act 1, Scene 1?

9. How is Lear's explanation of Ptydepe used to display the arrogance and self-indulgent actions of bureaucrats?

10. What is important about Maria's gesture to Gross at the end of Act 1, Scene 6, and what is the irony in it?

(see the answer keys)

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