In the second half of the play, Ballas and Gross switch roles. In dealing with the same frustrations, which differences in Ballas' character influence the way he handles things? What results does the different approach have? What does Gross realize as he sees Ballas deal with the issues? In detail, outline the significant differences in both characters, including how they changed throughout the play, yet still stayed the same in many ways. Use examples from the play as a reference.

Essay Topic 2

The protest in Scene 10 of Act 2 is one of Havel's most blatant illustrations of the dangers he is writing the play to raise awareness of. How does the protest relate to those dangers? What does it say about the bureaucrats involved? Also, explain Pillar's specific role in the protest and the warning Havel is making through his work. Include the significance of Pillar's name and how it fits in with the character's purpose in the plot at this point in the play.

Essay Topic 3

What does the new language, Chorukor, represent in the overall theme of the play? What is the major difference between it and Ptydepe? Explain in detail how each of the main characters react to Chorukor and why their reaction is significant. Do you believe that it can potentially fail in the same way that Ptydepe did, or will the same mistake keep being made? What will stop the mistake from being made again?

(see the answer keys)

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