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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What metaphor about Willy does Linda use in her phone conversation with Biff?
(a) "He's like a boat looking for a harbor."
(b) "He's only a little boat looking for a harbor."
(c) "He's like an old man rocking the boat."
(d) "He's an old clipper with no skipper."

2. What is a synonym for 'trepidation'?
(a) Anger
(b) Trembling
(c) Disquiet
(d) Timidity

3. What surrounds the Salesman's house?
(a) Office buildings
(b) A wide stoop
(c) Countryside
(d) Tall apartment buildings

4. Where does Willy believe his company most needs him?
(a) In Yonkers
(b) In Florida
(c) In New England
(d) In New York

5. Who does Linda refer to as "a philandering bum?"
(a) Biff
(b) Bernard
(c) Howard
(d) Happy

Short Answer Questions

1. What change has Happy noticed in Biff?

2. What reason does Willy give for refusing Charley's offer?

3. For what reason does Willy think the builder should have been arrested?

4. Where was Ben living when he died?

5. All the old buyers who loved Willy are ___________.

Short Essay Questions

1. Why has Willy unexpectedly returned from his journey?

2. What is the significance of the way the Loman house is presented when the play begins?

3. What does this conversation with Biff reveal about Happy's character?

4. How does Biff respond to Happy's question about his plans for the future?

5. Comment on the "gay and bright" music that is heard at the beginning of Act 2.

6. What is it that prevents Willy from accepting the offer of a job from Charley?

7. What is Linda's attitude to Willy's return?

8. In what way does the commercial world intrude into the wire recorder demonstration?

9. In what way is Linda realistic about life?

10. In the first few minutes of the play, what indications are there that Willy has an affinity with the artistic and creative?

(see the answer keys)

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