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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. How does Arnold try to justify the anonymous encounter?

2. Why will Ed not introduce Arnold to his parents?

3. Where is the setting in Scene 3?

4. What is a stranger doing to Arnold?

5. What is the main content of the monologue?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does this act end?

2. Describe the interactions of the characters on stage at the opening of this act.

3. Why does Ed think Laurel is attracted to gay men?

4. What might be a couple reasons why Laurel's plan is not successful?

5. Who is Mrs. Beckoff and describe her initial impressions during her visit to Arnold.

6. What happens when Arnold gets Ed on the phone?

7. What musical term is used in this scene and explain why it is used.

8. What is the significance of the term "Stretto" in this scene?

9. How does Ed think his parents feel about homosexuality and how does that figure into his dating Laurel?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In the second "Fugue in a Nursery, Stretto," Ed seduces Alan in the barn despite being in a supposedly monogamous relationship with Laurel. Discuss the following ideas in a well-developed essay using specific examples both from the text and any research you complete:

1. Why do you think Ed is so attracted to Alan?

2. Do you think Ed is actually gay and cannot resist being with men? Explain.

3. Do you think what Ed does is immoral? If yes, for what reasons? If no, why not?

4. Is it possible that Ed is bisexual? If so, how do you think he can resolve wanting to be with both men and women? Is a monogamous relationship possible for a bisexual individual?

Essay Topic 2

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 the similarities and differences of the themes among the three plays.

2. Write a possible scene that takes place a year later.

3. Choose one character and follow his/her development and growth (or lack of growth).

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

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