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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 Arnold talking about with the other person?

2. What is the setting at the opening of this scene?

3. Who sings from another part of the stage?

4. What does Ed think about the weekend visit?

5. What couple is conversing at the same time as Arnold and Alan?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Arthur's monologue reflect an underlying optimism or hope?

2. What in this scene indicates the differences between the two couples?

3. How does this act end?

4. What do Arnold and Alan decide about their relationship?

5. Give an example of the sexual liaison in the back room and how you interpret the example.

6. How do each of the men (Ed and Arnold) feel about the possibility of a renewed relationship?

7. Describe how Laurel is feeling. Do you think she has the right to feel this way?

8. What point do you think the author may be making in this scene, as well as in others and why do you think the author wishes to make this point?

9. Why does Ed come to the theatre and what happens at the beginning of the conversation?

10. Describe the fight between Arnold and his mother after the news of David's adoption was discusssed.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In the scene titled, "Fugue in a Nursery, Counter Subject," Arnold and Alan are resistant to joining Ed and Laurel in their "normal" Sunday routine. Choose one of the following topics and write a well-developed essay using specific examples both from the text and any research you complete:

1. Discuss how the term "Counter Subject" is used in musical compositions (particularly in the musical composition of a fugue) and how it is applicable to the action of this scene. Be sure to use specific examples and details.

2. Using the entire play as a source of material, outline Laurel's actions and manipulations, both implied and explicit, and discuss whether she has been successful and appropriate in her behavior.

3. Discuss the commonalities among all the main characters, (Arnold, Alan, Ed, and Laurel) as to their wants and needs as human beings in relationship. Can their needs/desires be universal to all humans? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

In "Fugue in a Nursery, Subject," the author reveals the relevance of the title of this section of the trilogy in this scene by showcasing the style of a fugue in the dialog of the characters. Discuss the following ideas in a well-developed essay using specific examples both from the text and any research you complete:

1. Define the term "fugue," as it applies to a musical composition.

2. Discuss how you think a fugue is relevant to how the action in this scene is carried out.

3. Do you think this style is effective for this scene?

4. Define the term "fugue," as it applies to a state of mind. Is this definition relevant to the action of the scene. Why or why not? Give examples.

Essay Topic 3

In "The International Stud: Scene 3," Arnold finally contacts Ed, who admits he is dating a woman. It seems likely from the conversation between Arnold and Ed that Ed is very aware of family and societal pressures to be "normal." Choose one of the following topics and write a well-developed essay using specific examples both from the text and any research you complete:

1. In what ways does the culture in which you live define normalcy as heterosexuality? Use examples from movies, t.v., school, church, and other cultural institutions. Discuss the ramifications of bucking cultural pressure and living life as a homosexual.

2. How does one's family of origin help shape one's perceptions of what is normal? What sort of overt, covert, and unconscious pressure is placed on one to conform to one's family's definition of normal? What are some behaviors and beliefs that are considered normal? Give examples both from the play, Torch Song Triology and your own life.

3. Discuss three famous people who have chosen to live apart from what is considered normal: not necessarily as homosexuals, but in any way that society might label as different or not normal. Do you admire these people's choices? Do they violate any moral laws according to how you have been raised. Could you see your self making a similar choice? Include, if you are comfortable in doing so, ways that you have chosen to be or do what is considered not normal.

(see the answer keys)

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