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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. How has the scenery changed from Scene 1 to Scene 2?

2. With whom does Messerschmann make his first entrance?

3. What does Hugo tell Isabelle about Diana?

4. Who owns the estate where this play is set?

5. How does Madame Desmortes react to Hugo's secret?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Patrice challenge Hugo to a duel?

2. Why is Isabelle sad, after she and Messerschmann tear up his ready cash?

3. How do the romantic schemes of Madame Desmortes ultimately play out?

4. What romantic intrigue does Capulet reveal to Madame Desmortes?

5. What does the gardener threaten to do regarding the rhododendrons, and why?

6. Why doesn't Madame Desmortes approve of the engagement between Frederic and Diana? How does Hugo try to reassure her?

7. Who does Hugo tell Isabelle that Diana loves? How does he elaborate on that statement?

8. How does Joshua respond to Messerschmann's biblical story?

9. Describe the setting of "Ring around the Moon."

10. Describe the relationship between Romainville and Isabelle.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Which characters are blackmailed by Hugo in the course of the play? For what sorts of weakness are those characters held accountable by Hugo?

Essay Topic 2

What are the social implications of coming from "old money," like Madame Desmortes? Why do some members of society place a greater value on inherited money than on money truly earned?

Essay Topic 3

How do the frenetic entrances and exits of Frederic and Hugo impact the audience as they view this play? Is that impact harder to appreciate when reading the play than when viewing it?

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