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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 is Mr. Alexander Brougham?

2. Where does Tillie go immediately after the scream is heard in Act 1?

3. Nanny is best described as:

4. What is the subject of Tillie's speeches in Act 1?

5. What is the "beautiful word" that Tillie speaks of in her opening monologue?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Miss Hanley think of Beatrice?

2. Why does Beatrice decide not to attend the science fair?

3. Is Beatrice looking forward to attending the science fair at the opening of Act 2?

4. What prevents Tillie from burying the rabbit upon discovering that it is dead?

5. Does Beatrice respect Nanny? Support your answer with examples.

6. Why does Beatrice want Tillie to wear a bow in her hair?

7. What is the one thing that Beatrice demands from Ruth, and why?

8. Why do you think Zindel chose to switch back and forth between the science fair and Beatrice at home in Act 2?

9. Is Beatrice is a good mother?

10. When Beatrice receives a call from Dr. Berg, what is her response?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Is Beatrice a sympathetic character? Why or why not?

a) What is the root cause of Beatrice's bitterness and caustic behavior?

b) Does Beatrice demonstrate signs of mental illness? How might this explain her abusiveness toward her daughters?

c) Is Beatrice more of a danger to herself (self-destructive) than she is to others? Why or why not?

c) In what ways do Beatrice's insecurities impact her daughters?

Essay Topic 2

Explore the concept of conformity versus individuality in Zindel's play. In what ways do the characters conform to society's expectations of them? In what ways do they remain independent? Which character conforms the most? Which character conforms the least?

Essay Topic 3

Analyze the scenes that incorporate comic relief in Zindel's play.

a) What are some examples of comic relief in the play?

b) What purpose does comic relief serve in the play?

c) Which character brings the most comic relief to the play?

(see the answer keys)

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