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

Short Answer Questions

1. What card game does Doaker frequently play?

2. What color are the trains at the railway before its name is changed?

3. In what room does Boy Willie convince the young woman to start kissing him?

4. Which character is described as being rebellious, even as a little boy?

5. What is the name of the young woman that Boy Willie comes home with?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The railroads of the town are extremely significant throughout the play.

Part 1. Explain the symbolism of a railroad as it pertains to Boy Willie's life.

Part 2. Explain the reasons why the railroad is important in Doaker's life.

Part 3. Explain why the railroad has come to be an important element in the supernatural elements of the play.

Essay Topic 2

The text of "The Piano Lesson" is presented as a play rather than straight prose. What reasons do you think August Wilson had to present his story this way? What was gained in the form of stage writing? What was lost?

Essay Topic 3

Even though there are many characters who have passed away in the play, the living characters seem to believe that they are still able to communicate with the dead. Give two examples of moments within the play that living characters attempt to speak with the dead. Compare / contrast their methods of speaking with the dead and compare / contrast the outcome of their "conversations."

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This section contains 260 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample