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

Short Answer Questions

1. What statement does Boy Willie make about death?

2. What weapon does Berniece retrieve to protect herself and her belongings?

3. How does Berniece respond to the news that Boy Willie intends to remove the piano?

4. What are the final words spoken in the play before the stage lights fade to black?

5. How does the family member respond to the sight of Boy Willie and the young woman kissing?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The piano itself is arguably the strongest symbol in the entire play. Explain the history of the piano and briefly discuss why the physical structure of the piano can be seen as a symbol within the Charles family.

Essay Topic 2

The Ghosts of Yellow Dog are important characters within the recurring theme of revenge.

Part 1. Explain the way that the Ghosts of Yellow Dog came to be.

Part 2. Discuss the way that the Ghosts of Yellow Dog exacted their revenge.

Part 3. Briefly discuss the various ways that the townsfolk viewed the acts that were considered to be the work of the Ghosts of Yellow Dog.

Essay Topic 3

The idea of supernatural beings within the Charles home is particularly strong in relation to Sutter's ghost.

Part 1. Give three examples of moments in which one or more members of the Charles family feels the presence of Sutter's spirit in their home.

Part 2. Briefly explain the reasons suggested for Sutter's stalking of the Charles family, and particularly, his spirit's apparent presence within the piano.

Part 3. Explain the various ways that members of the Charles family attempt to get rid of Sutter's spirit.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 352 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample