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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 is Mr. Hardcastle's response to Mrs. Hardcastle's complaining that he only likes old things.

2. What is Tony's reply when Hastings asks how he managed to get the jewels?

3. Does Mr. Hardcastle think he might change his mind about Marlow?

4. What does Mr. Hardcastle call his home?

5. What dichotomy does Marlow bewail?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is happening simultaneously as Tony runs in with the casket of jewels?

2. What is Mr. Hardcastle's first impression of Marlow and his friend Hastings?

3. After looking at the night's menu, what does Marlow do?

4. Why is Mr. Hardcastle training his servants?

5. Explain why Tony is so sure he can handle Mrs. Hardcastle.

6. When Mrs. Hardcastle sees Tony and Constance together, what does she assume?

7. Describe the argument Tony has with Mrs. Hardcastle in front of Constance and Hastings.

8. Using Mr. Hardcastle's speech at the beginning of act 3, define and explain the soliloquy.

9. How does Hastings inject himself into the argument between Tony and his mother?

10. Why does Hastings insist that Constance continue the ruse that they are in an inn?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Education in the 18th century was limited almost exclusively to the upper classes. Using Mr. Hardcastle's servants and Tony's inability to read Hastings' letter, write a paper on the disadvantages of illiteracy. Carry the idea on to the 21st century and how important education is today.

Essay Topic 2

From the old adage, "Oh, what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive," write a paper on the way lies keep complicating the plot of SHE STOOPS TO CONQUER. Use the lies and deceptions on the character of Marlow to address your point. Discuss how there might have been another way to handle Marlow by telling him the truth and asking his help in the elopement. Notice how Hastings' insistence on maintaining the prank is based on his assumption of how Marlow would react to the truth.

Essay Topic 3

Research the 18th century British carriages. Specifically look up the post or mail coach that is mentioned several times in the play. In your paper describe the carriages and the social implications in the culture of the times. Write about how these carriages were precursors of modern luxury means of transportation.

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