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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. The play was first published in the year:

2. When the characters use the term "himself" they are referring to:

3. The setting of Act 1 takes place:

4. Pegeen's relationship with her father can be described as:

5. In his first conversation with Pegeen, Shawn's character is revealed as that of a:

Short Essay Questions

1. How do Philly and Jimmy appear to feel about Christy?

2. Describe the manner in which Pegeen treats Shawn and explain why.

3. Describe the Widow Quin's character in terms of doing people favors.

4. Describe the irony in the villagers enthusiasm and acceptance of Christy Mahon.

5. Why is it not in Christy's best interests to tell everyone the story of how he murdered his dad?

6. What gives Christy "a new arrogance?"

7. What does Christy fight with his father about that results in Christy hitting him over the head?

8. What does Christy discover about himself during the gaming events in the village?

9. Why does Pegeen say she is the fright of seven townlands?

10. What is Pegeen's job?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Consider the significance of characters' physical appearance in the play. Write an essay in which you a) Discuss the change in Christy's appearance and its significance to his characterization; b) Discuss the difference between Shaun and Christy's appearance as they are described by the author, and consider the significance of this to Pegeen's actions; or 3) Consider the significance of Pegeen's appearance, as it is described by the author, to the events of the play and the actions of the male characters.

Essay Topic 2

Consider the significance of storytelling to the events and theme of Synge's play. Write an essay in which you discuss the significance of a) Christy's story about his father; b) Shawn's story about his journey to Pegeen's place in Act 1; or c) Old Mahon's story about his son.

Essay Topic 3

Characters voice and exhibit both rational and irrational fears throughout the play. Considering these fears, write an essay in which you:

1) Identify any common fear among the villagers and qualify it as rational or irrational.

OR

2) Identify any character as the most fearful in the play, supporting your ideas with examples from the text.

OR

3) Identify any fear as the most significant motivating factor in the play, supporting your ideas with examples from the text.

(see the answer keys)

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