Print
Word
PDF
|
| Name: _________________________ | Period: ___________________ |
This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.
Short Answer Questions
1. What idea does Ballas come up with in Act 2, Scene 10?
2. In a broader interpretation, what is the one thing that bureaucracy relies on to keep its power?
3. How does Gross feel and act at the beginning of Act 2, Scene10?
4. What symbolism of hope does Havel use at the end of Act 2, Scene 8?
5. What new position does Ballas offer Gross in Act 2, Scene 7?
Essay Topics
Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:
Essay Topic 1
At a few key times in the play, sparks of hope present themselves. This is what keeps the audience hoping that Gross can turn things around, and it is also what makes them believe it may be possible.
1) Describe some examples of hope that Gross does not see or recognize at the time they are presented to him. What is the irony of this? What does it say about Gross' character?
2) The character of Maria is consistently a main source of hope for Gross. Why do you think Gross is inclined to receive positive messages from her more than from other characters? What is it about Maria's personality that allows her to break through the bureaucracy and provide the hope Gross desperately needs?
Essay Topic 2
Manipulation is one of the main weapons used against Gross throughout the entire play. Using several examples from the play, describe in detail how Gross is manipulated on a variety of different levels. What is the objective of the manipulation? Why is it effective? Overall, why is manipulation necessary to the way a bureaucratic system functions? How does the play illustrate the way manipulation can lead to control over someone?
Essay Topic 3
Thumb is an essential part of the bureaucratic system, even though he seems largely unaware of it. What is his specific role in the play and in the larger theme of the story? Which character traits allow him to fulfill that role? What are the more serious dangers that Thumb represents a warning against?
|
This section contains 406 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) |
|
