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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. Who missed dinner with the Smiths?

2. What is unusual about the lighting at the end of the last scene?

3. According to Mr. Martin, what is below the ceiling?

4. Who briefly begins the play again after the last scene?

5. In the story, "The Headcold", what was blonde Marie's profession?

Short Essay Questions

1. How is mediocrity presented in the play?

2. How do the characters deviate from their assigned stations in life?

3. How is the plot developed in the play?

4. How is repetition used as a literary device?

5. Describe the Fire Chief.

6. Describe the plot behind Mrs. Smith's story of the man who bought flowers.

7. How does the play parody English society?

8. How does the Fire Chief settle the argument over the doorbell?

9. How is Realism used in the play?

10. Describe the discussion that centers around Dr. Mackenzie-King.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Describe the development of the characters throughout the play. How do the characters relate to each other emotionally? What factors motivate the characters throughout the play? What progress is made in developing relationships by the end of the play?

Essay Topic 2

How are situations from daily life incorporated into the play? How does Ionesco use the setting of the play to create the illusion of reality? How does the setting of the play affect the dialogue and action?

Essay Topic 3

How does the lack of logic affect the dialogue and action among the characters? What effect does illogical reasoning have on the stability of the conversation? List at three specific incidents involving illogical reasoning or behavior and discuss how each scene supports the theme of the play.

(see the answer keys)

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