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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. Blanche begs Stella, "Don't hang back with the __________!"

2. What is Stella reading in bed?

3. Where does Stanley look for proof of Belle Reve's disposition?

4. What does Stella ask Stanley to do for Blanche?

5. What does Blanche find to drink as she is waiting in Stella's apartment?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Blanche suggest they do in order to leave Stanley and the "situation" behind?

2. What happens between Blanche and the teenage boy that comes to collect for the newspaper?

3. What happens after Stanley throws the radio out of the window?

4. What has Shaw revealed to Stanley about Blanche?

5. What is happening between Eunice and Steve at the beginning of scene 5 that frightens Blanche?

6. How does Blanche mock her sister's desire?

7. Who lives at 632 Elysian Fields, as the play opens in "A Streetcar Named Desire"?

8. What is Blanche afraid of in terms of her relationship with Mitch?

9. What happens when Stella decides to go watch Stanley bowl?

10. What is Stella's explanation for Stanley's behavior the night before?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The idea of the poker game seems to be a metaphor for the rest of the play. It's a game of strategy, of deception at times, and only one person can win. How does Stanley and Blanche's relationship compare to this game? What are some other ways that Stanley is playing games with Blanche and with his wife?

Essay Topic 2

The idea of putting on a good appearance for others is something Blanche takes very seriously, adjusting her makeup and always making sure she smells good. Why do you think Blanche cares so much about appearances, not just her own? What do proper appearances mean? What do the other characters in the story feel about appearance?

Essay Topic 3

Spousal abuse is something indirectly addressed in this play. What are some examples of spousal abuse that occur? Why do you think Stella reacts the way she does? Do you think she believes she is being abused? Why or why not? Why does Blanche react the way she does?

(see the answer keys)

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