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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why is Sir Oliver pleased near the end of Act 4, Scene 1?

2. Who does Sir Oliver name as his heir?

3. Whose portrait does Sir Oliver point to with interest to buy?

4. What is the setting of Act 4, Scene 1?

5. Who does Sir Oliver point out has sent Joseph plenty of money, according to rumor?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Examine the symbolism of Sheridan's use of naming characters to allude to their personalities.

Essay Topic 2

At the end of the play, as Snake discloses information and clarification that provides relief for some of the otherwise confused and miserable characters, is he demonstrative of having reformed his ways from his days of plotting and carrying out character assassinations with Lady Sneerwell? Are there other factors that contributed to his willingness to confess about some of his misdeeds that caused his victims pain and misery? Support your position with dialogue, text, and/or paraphrase from the play.

Essay Topic 3

Throughout Sheridan's play, it can be said that detail focusing on the gossiping circle's gatherings at Lady Sneerwell's home tend to imply that these gatherings are attended largely, if not exclusively, by women. Write an essay that either supports or disproves that women are solely responsible for spreading the gossip about which Sheridan "complains". Support your position with dialogue, text, and/or paraphrase from the play.

(see the answer keys)

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