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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. Who doubts what he says he saw?

2. About what awkward arrangement does Bill ask?

3. What are hanging in the living room at the opening of Act 1, Scene 3?

4. Where do Ethel and Norman find Billy?

5. What does Norman say about dancing when that topic arises?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the first interaction between Ethel and Chelsea when they are alone.

2. How does the first interaction between Chelsea and her parents show the reader the relationship between Chelsea and each of her parents?

3. Describe the scene that occurs after Charlie arrives and what theme this vignette may illustrate.

4. Describe the interaction between Norman and Bill after the others have gone outside.

5. What does Norman tell Ethel she shouldn't do in front of Chelsea and her boyfriend and how does this brief exchange between Norman and Ethel demonstrate a difference in their personality?

6. What does this opening scene suggest about the relationship between Norman and Billy?

7. The opening conversation in this scene brings up an idea already discussed in the previous scene. What does the conversation concern?

8. Describe the two fishermen's interaction as they leave for the dock.

9. Give a brief synopsis of the conversation Chelsea and Ethel have about Norman as Chelsea just arrives.

10. What regret does Norman express and what may that regret foreshadow?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

One of the very first things the reader becomes aware of is that a probable theme of this play is the idea of aging and its inherent problems. Answer the following questions in a coherent essay using detailed examples from the entire play:

1.) Who is most obviously failing, probably as a result of age?

2.) What is the main problem Norman is having at the opening of the play?

3.) How common is memory problems among people in their late 70s and older?

4.) Are there ways to combat memory problems? What are they?

Essay Topic 2

In Act 1, Scene 2, Charlie is again mentioned; in fact, he arrives at the door. Choose one of the following and write a coherent essay using detailed examples from the entire play:

1). Compare and contrast Charlie with Bill.

2). Charlie could be said to be a foil to Bill. What does that term mean and how might it be true of Charlie? Give specific examples.

3). Charlie might be said to be an archetype of "the boy next door." Explain in detail the term archetype. Give examples as to why Charlie could be considered an archetype of "the boy next door."

Essay Topic 3

In Act 1, Scene 3, young Billy Ray is introduced and hits if off immediately with Norman, who has a somewhat strained relationship with his own daughter, Chelsea. Answer the following questions in a coherent essay using detailed examples from the entire play:

1). Why do you think Norman seems more relaxed and open to Billy Ray versus Chelsea?

2). Do you think Norman would have preferred a son rather than a daughter? Why?

3). Do you think most couples hope for a son as first born or at least having a son to carry on the family name?

4). How do you think the natural inclination for many couples to want at least one son has on the psychological health of daughters?

(see the answer keys)

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