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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 John's profession?

2. Who does Philip question about why no one has ever tried to stop his destructive behavior?

3. Where does the play open?

4. What happens when Philip grabs Mollie in a fit of anger?

5. What quality of Philip has served as the backdrop for the tumultuous lives of his family?

Short Essay Questions

1. What becomes clear to be the main reason Philip wants to take Paris with him?

2. How is John is the voice of reason for Mollie?

3. Where does Philip tell Paris they will go?

4. What information does John give Mollie that makes her brighten?

5. What is the primary reason why Philip wants to take Paris with him?

6. How does Mollie believe Philip died?

7. How does Hattie react to seeing Philip back home for the first time?

8. What are Hattie's comments regarding the white coverings over the furnishings?

9. What does Mother Lovejoy want Mollie to do and how does she want Mollie to act regarding her relationship with Philip?

10. Who is Sister and what does she do?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the act of suicide in The Square Root of Wonderful. We know that Paris mentions that suicide is weakness. However, when someone is on the edge of despair where no rational thought takes place, could it be considered a sickness or a form of relief? Does Philip's suicide bring the family closer together or does it split them further apart. Does it serve it's purpose or is it the ultimate tragedy?

Essay Topic 2

What is the theme of "The Square Root of Wonderful?" What is the main idea or underlying meaning? It may be stated or implied but it is an idea the author returns to time and again and is the most important idea in the story. Explain your answer by sharing the feelings of the main character, the thoughts and conversations he has, the actions and events of the story, and what the characters ultimately learn.

Essay Topic 3

Compare and Contrast the roles of Sister and Mother Lovejoy. In which ways are the ladies alike in their thinking regarding Philip? In which ways are they different? Is one woman more of an enabler than the other? Explain your answer and use evidence from the text.

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