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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. At first, how does Célimène react to Alceste's reaction to the visitor in Act 2, Scene 3?
(a) She throws an angry fit.
(b) She says, "Fine, go ahead."
(c) She insists that she wants him to stay.
(d) She begins to cry.

2. Acaste and Clitandre start naming members of what in Act 2, Scene 4?
(a) A secret club.
(b) Célimène's suitors.
(c) The government.
(d) The court.

3. While Oronte is reading his sonnet, what does Alceste whisper to Philinte?
(a) Alceste criticizes what Oronte is wearing.
(b) Alceste asks if the sonnet is almost over.
(c) Alceste criticizes Philinte's praising of the sonnet.
(d) Alceste tells Philinte that they should applaud when the poem is over.

4. By her actions in Act 2, Scene 2, what opinion of Alceste's has Celimene proven to be correct?
(a) That Celimene really is not a nice person.
(b) That Alceste should marry Celimene quickly.
(c) That Celimene loves Alceste more than other men.
(d) That Celimene's feelings for Alceste cannot be trusted.

5. After Philinte points out who Alceste does not like, what flaw in Alceste's personality does Philinte observe?
(a) That Alceste is too happy.
(b) That Alceste is too critical of Celimene.
(c) That Alceste is depressing.
(d) That Alceste complains even if someone praises him.

Short Answer Questions

1. What surprises Alceste during his conversation with Basque in Act 2, Scene 5?

2. After Oronte leaves, why do Philinte and Alceste argue?

3. How does Alceste feel about the friendship?

4. At the beginning of Act 2, Scene 1, why is Alceste grieving?

5. What does the officer's uniform tell the characters?

Short Essay Questions

1. Act 3, Scene 2, consists only of one line. Explain what happens during the scene and what it has to do with the theme of the play.

2. Why does Philinte think Alceste is being summoned to the royal court in Act 2, Scene 6?

3. What is suggested about Alceste's position in Celimene's life when she calls his bluff about leaving in Ace Two, Scene Three?

4. Describe what happens after Basque announces Célimène's other visitor in Act 2, Scene 3.

5. Why is it ironic that Alceste is upset with Celimene talking about the members of the royal court?

6. Why does Alceste not break off his relationship with Celimene?

7. What is Alceste's plan for the future now that the court case is settled?

8. In Alceste's anger he asks Eliante to marry him. Why does Eliante not marry Alceste while she has the chance?

9. There is a social game being played during Act Three, Scene Three. What are two reasons Alceste does not want to play the game?

10. At the time "The Misanthrope" was written, there were no telephones or cell phones. How do you think someone would know that Alceste was at Celimene's house?

(see the answer keys)

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