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

Short Answer Questions

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

2. What pet died when Boy Willie was a young boy?

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

4. What does Avery claim is doing God's work in the town?

5. What statement does Boy Willie make about death?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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 2

The exorcism in the final scene of the play proves to be a powerful symbol for the way that the family has chosen to move forward. Create a list of three things that the exorcism symbolizes in the play. Choose two characters and explain how their roles were pivotal in the success of the final exorcism.

Essay Topic 3

Both Cleotha and Crawley are remembered by their mourning spouses throughout the play. Explain how Crawley and Cleotha died and compare/contrast the ways that their spouses keep their memories alive.

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This section contains 265 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample