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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 Miller initially feel about the new job assignment?

2. What source is suggested as proof to backup Fatt's claims?

3. How do workers become committee members?

4. What does Fatt do to send the Gunman back to his original position?

5. Why does Joe think the workers need to strike?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are some of the reasons that Fayette selects Miller for the new project?

2. Is striking the best option for the workers or should they have explored other possible solutions?

3. What, if anything, justifies Fatt's use of a spy to avoid a strike?

4. What does Agate's dialogue about the union button imply?

5. In Scene 1 the play foreshadows many of the characters whose stories are told. Agate gives the reader a quick look back. Who are the characters he brings attention to and what are there issues?

6. How do Agate's and Fatt's picture of "reds" differ?

7. What colors does Joe use to refute Fatt's accusations? Describe the situation of the workers.

8. What does Joe think of Lefty?

9. What are Dr. Barnes and Benjamin talking about when they refer to the "disease" and how is Benjamin affected by it?

10. What are several factors that have contributed to Benjamin's removal from surgery?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How is the language of Agate and Fatt similar or different when they attempt to persuade workers? Which approach is most effective? Less successful? Why?

Essay Topic 2

Odets' play has been called dated because of the language. The slang and figurative language almost demand a close reading of the play with a good dictionary at hand. How does the language aid communication and relationships in the 1930s? What does it communicate about the speakers and listeners? What if anything could have influenced the language of the working class? What if any contemporary communications are comparable to Odets' language?

Essay Topic 3

Joe and Edna, and Sid and Florence experience emotional and social side effects from the economic situation the workers are facing in the play. How do these side effects manifest in their personal relationships?

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