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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 Congreve use satire in the prologue?

2. Why does Wishfort dislike Mirabell?

3. What does Mirabell state that he believes about Mrs. Millamant to Fainall?

4. Why does Petulant hire three prostitutes?

5. Why is eavesdropping so successful in Act 3, Scene 1?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Lady Wishfort.

2. Describe Fainall's character.

3. Why are fame and fortune said to be 'fleeting'?

4. How does Congreve feel about Mirabell's plot?

5. Why does Congreve use 'eavesdropping' in Act 3, Scene 1?

6. Why does Mrs. Marwood tell Lady Wishfort she has seen Foible with Mirabell?

7. What do you think is Congreve's purpose in establishing an affair between Fainall and Mrs. Marwood?

8. Explain what Mrs. Marwood learned when she stayed in the closet in Lady Wishfort's dressing room. How does she react?

9. Describe Mirabell's feelings for Mrs. Millamant when he discusses his love for her with Fainall in Act 1, Scene 2 in the chocolate house.

10. Describe Mirabell's plan to marry Mrs. Millamant.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The motives of the characters seem to determine their success in the play. Discuss the different character's motivations in this play. Did any of them have the same motivations? What factors influenced the character's motivations?

Essay Topic 2

Congreve claimed that 'Fame and fortune are fleeting'. What does he mean by this statement? Do you think it is true? Why or why not? Give specific examples (either from the play or real life) to illustrate your point of view.

Essay Topic 3

Congreve seemed to be critical of Restoration society for various reasons. Find at least three examples in the play that illustrate his criticism. Explain why he thought each one of these points was negative. How would he have changed these failings? Explain your answer in detail.

(see the answer keys)

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