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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Gross tells Maria that his current situation is a result of what?

2. What does Hana tell Ballas people are saying about Ptydepe?

3. What symbolism of hope does Havel use at the end of Act 2, Scene 8?

4. What is the overall message in Act 2, Scene 11?

5. What is interesting about the way Ballas receives the mail in Act 2, Scene 7?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Maria's new independence provides an optimistic ending of the play for the audience. What does it symbolize, not just for the character, but also for the main theme of the entire play? How does her departure symbolize hope? What does it say about freedom in general as it relates to independence?

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

Manipulation is one of the main weapons used against Gross throughout the entire play. Using several examples from the play, describe in detail how Gross is manipulated on a variety of different levels. What is the objective of the manipulation? Why is it effective? Overall, why is manipulation necessary to the way a bureaucratic system functions? How does the play illustrate the way manipulation can lead to control over someone?

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This section contains 373 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample