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

Short Answer Questions

1. What is implied in the song Arnold sings?

2. What characters the apartment and why did they leave?

3. Who discuss a similar subject of that between Ed and Laurel?

4. According to David, how has Arnold been since Alan's death?

5. What was Arnold's mother's response and friends' responses to Arnold's loss of Alan?

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 "The International Stud: Scene 4," Arnold participates in anonymous sex with a stranger. Though it is not explicitly stated, it is likely given the time period in which this play is written that Arnold and the stranger did not practice "safe sex." 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 "safe sex."

2. Considering that the AIDS epidemic had not yet surfaced, was it wise of Arnold to engage in sex with a stranger? Explain your rationale.

3. Do you believe it is important to learn about safe sex at school? Would the school or parents do a better job of explaining the essentials of Safe Sex?

4. Is school a proper place to gain sex education? Does your school require sex education? Explain your answers.

Essay Topic 3

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).

(see the answer keys)

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