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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. Whose marriage did Inez break up?

2. How did Garcin's wife die?

3. Which character wants to put on lipstick and powder?

4. How many mirrors does Estelle have in her bedroom?

5. If he could be back with them for one day, where would Garcin fling their lie?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do you think that Estelle is flattered by Inez attention, even after she knows that Inez is being cruel?

2. Why do you think that Inez would rather deal with hell face to face?

3. Why does Estelle shed no actual tears when she cries?

4. Sartre uses a mirror as a symbol in Part 3. Describe how the mirror is important to understanding the character of Estelle.

5. Why did Garcin say he treated his wife so badly?

6. Why did Garcin flee to Mexico, and what does it have to do with cowardice?

7. What do you think is the worst thing Garcin did to his wife?

8. Although both Inez and Garcin pressure Estelle into telling them why she is in the room, at the end of the section, why is Estelle only angry with Inez and not Garcin?

9. Why is Estelle so upset when she sees Olga tell one of her lovers the truth?

10. What is Inez guilty of?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Sartre uses symbols to communicate deeper levels of meaning in this play. In an essay, describe the first instances of this symbol, i.e. what it meant and how it was represented at the beginning of the play. Then examine how the symbol evolved, or how the characters' and audiences understanding of the symbol changes over the course of the play. Chose one of the following symbols:

A) The bronze statue.

B) The human eye.

Essay Topic 2

How one character punishes another is of primary importance in this play. The reasons why these three are each other's perfect torturers are revealed in the action of the play and in the things the characters say to each other. Chose one of the following and write an essay:

A) How Inez is the best torturer for Garcin.

B) How Garcin is the best torturer for Estelle.

C) How Estelle is the best torturer for Inez.

Be sure to explain the specific ways in which the character tortured his/her fellow character, and why their particular ways of inflicting pain were sure to be the most painful. In addition, briefly state which one would be the best torturer for you and why.

Essay Topic 3

Near the end of the play, Garcin and Estelle make ready to flee the room. Describe what happens when the door opens. Consider the following questions: Why does Garcin want to leave the room? Why does Estelle want to leave the room? Does Inez want to leave the room? Why or why not.

In addition, decide what you would do, if you were in their circumstances. Would you leave the room? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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