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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. Where does Gross wish he could return to at the end of Acct 1, Scene 4?

2. In modern times, what is a term used to describe the act of portraying something negative in a positive way?

3. What is significant about the examples Lear uses for the word, "boo?"

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

5. Who is revealed to be the person that authorized the use of Ptydepe?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is a Ptydepeist, and what is their purpose?

2. What is the game that Helena plays with Gross and what does it symbolize?

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

4. How does Lear explain Ptydepe in describing the process for learning it?

5. How does Gross justify his situation to himself towards the end of Act 1, Scene 4?

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

7. What is Lear lecturing about during Act 2, Scene 11, and why does it cause Gross to stop and listen?

8. Describe the difference between Thumb and Gross as the characters are portrayed in Act 1, Scene 2.

9. What is it about Gross' life that leads him to believe he might not be able to "fight for his innocence?" What reasoning does he give Maria?

10. What do Ballas and Column continue to perpetuate by going to lunch in the middle of Lear's lecture in Act 2, Scene 11?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The crucial moment of the second part of Act 9 is when the memo is finally translated for Gross. The contents of it are ironic, comedic, and inspiring all at the same time. Explain them in detail, describing why and how all three themes (irony, comedy, and inspiration) are represented. Also, explain what the significance is of Maria being the one to translate it. What does that add to the message for Gross?

Essay Topic 2

In Scene 3 of Act 1, there is a very significant scene involving Maria, Gross, and the Staff Watcher. Describe the scene in detail, highlighting its importance and the messages it delivers. What does it specifically say about each of three characters involved? In a metaphorical sense, what do the cigars represent and why is that a key element to the story?

Essay Topic 3

In the beginning of the play, Ptydepe is introduced as the new language of the office. This starts the chain of events that lead to many discoveries for the characters and the audience.

1) What does Ptydepe represent within the context of the play? What is it a symbol for in the bureaucracy and why does it cause Gross to become so frustrated?

2) How does Ptydepe tie in with the larger theme of the play, specifically as it relates to the dangers of a socialist/communist system of government? Why do you think Havel chose a language to illustrate his point?

(see the answer keys)

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