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

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Cora take the time to try one more time, regarding Bert?

2. What must Bert do when he speaks?

3. What does Norwood's last comment to Bert spark?

4. What point does Norwood try to make, regarding his "colored folks?"

5. How does Bert seem?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Higgins chides Norwood for keeping a black mistress like a wife.

Part 1) Why does Norwood keep Cora in his home like a wife? How does this affect Cora?

Part 2) Does Higgins' attitude towards Norwood's behavior reflect the views of other white people in town? Why or why not?

Part 3) How does Norwood respond to Higgins' chiding? Why does he respond this way? What are your thoughts on his relationship with Cora?

Essay Topic 2

This play is more than just a study of the racial tensions facing the south after the end of slavery.

Part 1) How is it more than this? Why is it more than this?

Part 2) How can others relate to this story? What is the author's purpose in writing this play?

Part 3) How is the south in the 1930s used as a backdrop for a deeper purpose? How is this play timeless?

Essay Topic 3

Bert commits suicide.

Part 1) Why does he commit suicide? What other options did he have?

Part 2) Could he have survived? Why or why not?

Part 3) What is the purpose of Bert's death? What message is the author trying to convey to the reader or audience member?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 330 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample