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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. Why does the prologue refer to Congreve as a 'passive poet'?

2. What is the second kind of fool blessed by?

3. Which one of the follow was not part of Mirabell's plan?

4. What is the purpose of this play's prologue?

5. Why are poets often fooled?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What is the relationship between Lady Wishfort and Mrs. Marwood?

3. Describe Petulant.

4. Why does Congreve believe that 'natural fools' are blessed by fortune?

5. Who is the most important character in the play? Describe him.

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

7. Congreve says the play doesn't contain satire yet the play is full of satirical pictures of different behaviors by the characters. Why do you think he made this statement?

8. Do you think that a prologue is a good way to introduce a play? Why or why not?

9. What opinion do you have of Mirabell's trickery in pretending to love Lady Wishfort in order to marry Mrs. Millamant? Is this too far-fetched to be believable or is it a possibility? Explain your point of view using specific examples from the play.

10. In what way(s) is the play different from the usual farce audiences were accustomed to?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

Essay Topic 2

Lady Wishfort is a vain, silly woman who is bound by the rules of Restoration society. Discuss her character giving illustrations from the play. What are some of the rules she tried to obey? How is this different from today's society?

Essay Topic 3

If you were a friend of Mirabell, would you have supported his scheme to marry Mrs. Millamant? Explain why or why not.

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