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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. Mama warns the movers to be careful with what object?

2. Mrs. Johnson asks Mama if Beneatha:

3. Walter Lee is so happy that he:

4. What has Ruth bought for the new house?

5. What was Mama's maiden name?

Short Essay Questions

1. Is Mrs. Johnson sincere when she says, "I'm soooo happy for y'all"? Explain.

2. Mama explains to Mrs. Johnson that Walter Lee is busy resting. What conclusion does Mrs. Johnson jump to on hearing that?

3. Before this scene we hadn't realized the scope of Walter Lee's dreams. What are they?

4. Who is the first family member to be suspicious of Mr. Lindner's real intent?

5. In this scene, Walter Lee's mood has changed for the better from his depression earlier. How does he express his happier feelings?

6. Why is Beneatha upset at Walter Lee in this scene?

7. Why does Walter Lee finally decide not to take Karl Lindner's money?

8. Walter Lee asks Mr. Lindner to get out, but Mr. Lindner leaves something behind. What?

9. At the end of the play, Mama tells Ruth that Walter Lee "finally come into his manhood today." What does it mean to come into your manhood?

10. How do we know that Beneatha tends to hold political positions that promote civil rights?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay examining how this play relates to the American Dream. Is there one American Dream or are there many different ones? What is this play saying about the Americans and their dreams?

Essay Topic 2

In speaking about the new house, Ruth asks Mama, "Is there a whole lot of sunlight?" Explain the dramatic contrast of the dark, dingy apartment set with the idea of a room full of light. What does a new environment represent to the Younger family?

Essay Topic 3

Describe how Mama exercises her power over family members, especially the male characters Walter and Travis. How does she include or exclude them?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 566 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample