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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. Yelena promises Sonya she really did marry the Professor for __________, in conflict with Sonya's suspicions.

2. When Astrov is pacing by Marina, what does Marina first offer to him in order to calm him?

3. Yelena points out that __________ is obviously in love with Astrov, but she is too shy to talk to him about it.

4. Who asks Telegin to begin playing music, though he is quickly told not to by another character?

5. Who notes that the Professor is fine as she sips her tea after Astrov points out he came to see the Professor?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who comes into the house from the woods as Astrov, Marina, and Vanya all stand or sit in the main room?

2. What does Astrov return to the room with after Sonya has coaxed him into coming over to them?

3. When Sonya returns, what does Astrov say he needs to do so he has to leave the room?

4. What does Vanya tell Yelena about the storm that is about to be upon them?

5. What are some of the things Sonya suggests Yelena do if she is really as bored as she seems?

6. What happens when the Professor wakes up from his nap at the start of this scene?

7. What does Vanya say in his soliloquy about the Professor before the current time and how they supported each other?

8. What is another function of the bedroom as indicated by the play's details?

9. What does the Professor think is the reason for his sudden shortness of breath as he is asking for a book?

10. When does Astrov believe a woman can become a friend of a man?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There is some discussion amongst literary reviewers and critics that this play is actually an example of society at that time in Russia, with the characters portraying the various classes.

Part 1: Why do you think the author decided to create a play to talk about social issues?

Part 2: Do you think plays have the ability to change society as a whole? Why or why not?

Part 3: Do you agree that the play is a representation of society at that time? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

The scene in which Vanya tries to shoot the Professor is a dramatic one, though it does not result in death or even in change.

Part 1: Why do you think Vanya tried to shoot the Professor, twice, in this scene?

Part 2: Do you think Vanya intended to hurt the Professor? Why or why not?

Part 3: What else might Vanya have done to persuade the Professor? Why?

Essay Topic 3

It's pointed out that Vanya used to have convictions, but he doesn't seem to have any anymore.

Part 1: Do you think it's important for a person to have convictions? Why or why not?

Part 2: Why do you think Maria is concerned that Vanya doesn't have convictions anymore?

Part 3: Do you think you have convictions right now? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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