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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. Mrs. Johnson asks Mama if Beneatha:

2. How long has Beneatha wanted to be a doctor?

3. What word is it that affects Walter Lee so strongly that he begins to pace and mutter?

4. What is different about the apartment?

5. What is the bad news?

Short Essay Questions

1. 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?

2. How does Mama show understanding when Beneatha says that George is a fool?

3. How do the onstage character to react to Mr. Lindner's offer to buy their new house? Describe their emotions.

4. Ruth wants to take a hot bath at the new house. Explain why that is a luxury for her.

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. Mama serves sweet potato pie to Mrs. Johnson. What is sweet potato pie?

7. Why does Mama insist on Travis staying while Walter Lee talks to Karl Lindner?

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

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

10. A new character, Mr. Karl Lindner, appears at the door. How is he greeted by the adult Youngers?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Lorraine Hansberry uses many images in this play. Walter Lee is particularly visual when he speaks about his dreams. Examine the imagery he uses and how it support his character.

Essay Topic 2

The Younger family lives in cramped quarters. Describe the physical changes needed to accommodate an infant in the apartment, and how it will impact their relationships.

Essay Topic 3

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?

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