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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. Who is shooting pool when Scene 2 of Act One opens?

2. What nationality is Mr. Harari, the diamond merchant who frequents Mama's place?

3. Mama recalls her mother taking her and her brothers to what location so that she could "visit with uncles" (18)?

4. With what type of gesture does Christian greet Sophie in Scene 4 of Act One?

5. When Sophie meets Mama's eyes and reveals her age, what is it?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Christian tell Mama about Sophie's injuries?

2. 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?

3. What sort of establishment does Mama run?

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

5. What major revelation does Salima share with Sophie in Scene 3 of Act One?

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

7. Discuss Nottage's goal for writing and producing Ruined, according to the text's introduction.

8. Describe Commander Osembenga.

9. What does Sophie say about her past level of education?

10. To whom does Mama appear to pledge her allegiance at the beginning of Scene 2 of Act One and why might appearances be deceiving in this case?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Trace the characterization arc of Mama’s character throughout the play Ruined. Discuss whether Mama is a round or flat character and whether she is a static or dynamic character.

Essay Topic 2

What is Nottage's message about the relationship between oppression and brutality within the play Ruined?

Essay Topic 3

Analyze the ways in which the themes of adaptability and resignation appear within Nottage’s play Ruined. What message is Nottage sending about these two themes over the course of the narrative?

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