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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. What is Norman's response to the idea of Chelsea and Bill sharing a bedroom?

2. What song does Ethel sing?

3. What does Bill say he saw when he comes into the house?

4. How does Norman take Ethel's suggestion?

5. Why does Ethel go to get a rake?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. How, at this point in the play, is Billy's relationship with Norman different from that of Chelsea with her father, Norman?

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

4. What theme is illustrated by what Ethel does right after Norman and Billy leave?

5. What can be inferred by the fact that Norman calls Billy by the name Chelsea from time to time?

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

7. Describe the opening scene in Act 2, Scene 1.

8. Describe Ethel's concern and role in that day's fishing venture.

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

10. What does Ethel do after Norman and Billy leave?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The last scene in the play is one that is bittersweet in that it is obvious that Norman will die in the not-too-distant future, and yet at the same time, the fact that he finally overcomes his inhibitions and dances with Ethel is a thing of hope--hope that an "old geezer" like Norman can change. Choose one of the following questions and write a coherent essay using detailed examples from the entire play:

1). Discuss the theme of death that runs throughout the play, using specific examples.

2). Discuss the theme of redemption for at least two of the main characters; be sure to include specific examples.

3). Discuss the theme of romance and how it can be demonstrated as shown throughout the play.

Essay Topic 2

In Act 2, Scene 1, Norman and Billy are sneaking out of the house, acting like old buddies, to go fishing. Choose one of the following to write a coherent essay with detailed examples:

1). Describe the metamorphosis of Billy and Norman's relationship. Fill in the blanks where information is not provided.

2). Discuss why you think Norman adopts some of Billy's style of talk and habits and Billy adopts some of Norman's ideas. Include what those ideas and habits are.

3). Discuss how people tend to treat their grandchildren differently from their children. Give examples from your life or other books/movies you have seen. Why do you think this happens?

Essay Topic 3

The first character the reader meets is Norman Thayer. Answer the following questions in a coherent essay using detailed examples from the entire play:

1). Describe Norman physical characteristics.

2). How does the way he is dressed and his actions help portray who he is as a personality?

3). Just from reading about him in Act 1, Scene 1, what would you think are some of his personality traits? Give specific examples for each trait you mention.

(see the answer keys)

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