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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. What action does Sophie take in Scene 2 of Act One in order to soothe Salima after she is bitten by a soldier?

2. Christian tells Mama, "The last time I had a drink, I lost" (39) what?

3. At what time of day does Scene 4 of Act One begin?

4. Who is dancing for tips from soldiers when Scene 2 of Act One opens?

5. What special talent does Sophie have?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the setting of Scene 3 in Act One and what is significant about Nottage's choice of setting?

2. Describe Commander Osembenga.

3. What is Mama's policy about armed men in her establishment and what is ironic about the policy?

4. For what reason does Salima imagine Sophie to be carefree and how does Sophie disabuse her of that assumption in Scene 3 of Act One?

5. In what way has Christian struggled with addiction and how do you know?

6. For what reason does Mama show her raw diamond to Mr. Harari?

7. Provide evidence of the bond between Sophie and Salima that has grown since their arrival at Mama's.

8. What significant event occurred in Mama's life when she was 11 years old and how did it affect the shape of her future goals?

9. Who is Christian and why is Mama surprised to see him?

10. In what setting does the play Ruined take place?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss Nottage’s reasons for including Swahili phrases alongside the play’s use of English as its primary language.

Essay Topic 2

Examine the symbolism of the use of props in the play, including the birdcage, the parrot, the motor scooter, and others.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss Sophia’s role within the events of the play and explain how her character helps to further develop certain themes that are key to Nottage's piece.

(see the answer keys)

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