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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. Which character is NOT singing about Max and Leo at the end of act 1, scene 9?

2. Who answers the door at Roger's apartment in act 1, scene 7?

3. What word does Leo offer up about the play that helps to convince Roger to direct it?

4. How does act 1, scene 3 end?

5. From what classic work is Bialystock's latest flop in act 1, scene 1 adapted?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Leo sing about in act 2, scene 1, and how does it affect Ulla?

2. What does it mean that Franz's only preparation for the show is to put on a Hitler mustache?

3. What does Max sum up about the author of Springtime for Hitler?

4. Why does Max cast Franz to play Hitler?

5. How is Max's treatment of the old ladies different from how everyone views him at the end of the act?

6. What is the theatrical superstition detailed in act 2, scene 3?

7. What are some of the things Max does to procure the funds for Springtime for Hitler?

8. What does Max vow to do at the end of act 1, scene 1?

9. How is Max responsible for Leo's absence in act 2, scene 6?

10. What are the old ladies doing in act 1, scene 9 and what is their song about?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe, in detail, the behind-the-scenes and on-stage production of Springtime for Hitler. Include the following:

1) The differences of Franz, Roger, and Max's visions of the play.

2) Roger's portrayal of Hitler.

3) Ulla's role in the play.

4) German stereotypes and cliches.

5) The outcome of the performance.

Essay Topic 2

Mel Brooks introduces a few female characters who are mostly played for laughs: Ulla and Hold Me-Touch Me (as well as the other little old ladies). Is his treatment of these characters sexist? Why or why not? Points to consider:

1) How the male characters treat the female characters.

2) How the female characters view themselves.

3) The use of sex with these characters.

Create a strong thesis and cite specific examples from the text.

Essay Topic 3

Max and Leo are the center of The Producers, particularly the evolution of their friendship and how it changes them. Cite specific examples from the script.

Part 1) Compare and contrast Max and Leo. How are the men similar? How are they different?

Part 2) How does Max and Leo change over the course of the play? Do they change each other? How is this known?

Part 3) How does Leo's abandonment of Max test their friendship? Why Leo leave him?

Part 4) What do each of men teach each other? Do they emerge from their ordeal better people?

(see the answer keys)

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