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

Short Answer Questions

1. Who says, "Yeah, I have a way with animals"?

2. Who says, "Leo, you're in a waste-paper basket"?

3. What does Murray state that Sandra and Albert will be guarding together?

4. What does Nick tell Murray he wants to change his name to in Act 3, Part 2?

5. What does Murray say he saw at the pier?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Herb Gardner does a fine job of developing the character of Murray Burns. Describe in detail the characterization of Murray Burns from the start of the play to the end of the play. Make sure to include details about Murray's physical characteristics, his actions, his reactions, and even perhaps what his thoughts may be. Include specific examples from the play.

Essay Topic 2

Albert and Sandra are Child Welfare agents in the play A Thousand Clowns. Besides working together as partners, Sandra and Albert are also dating at the beginning of the play. Compare and contrast Sandra and Albert's characters in detail. Do they make good working partners? Why or why not? Do they make a good couple? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

By the end of Act 1 in the play, Sandra and Murray have become quite close. Why do you think they "hit it off" so easily? What qualities in Murray do you think Sandra is attracted to? What qualities in Sandra would benefit Murray in a relationship? Is this a relationship that can last? Why or why not? How do you think a relationship between Sandra and Murray would affect Nick? Would it be good or bad for Nick?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 287 words (approx. 1 page at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample