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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.
Short Answer Questions
1. What stunning topic does Lear bring up in Act 2, Scene 11?
2. According to Lear, what is a big factor in the way people use Ptydepe?
3. What symbolism of hope does Havel use at the end of Act 2, Scene 8?
4. What do the other bureaucrats sense about Ballas?
5. What is interesting about the way Ballas receives the mail in Act 2, Scene 7?
Essay Topics
Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:
Essay Topic 1
In Scene 3 of Act 1, there is a very significant scene involving Maria, Gross, and the Staff Watcher. Describe the scene in detail, highlighting its importance and the messages it delivers. What does it specifically say about each of three characters involved? In a metaphorical sense, what do the cigars represent and why is that a key element to the story?
Essay Topic 2
A recurring theme that Havel uses through his characters is the "spin" that they provide in order to justify their actions and in some cases, hide their motives.
1) Describe in detail how Lear uses spin to legitimatize Ptydepe. Why does he use this technique when introducing and explaining the new language? What is the overall purpose for his deception?
2) Besides the example of Lear's lectures, what other time in the play was spin used to justify something or as a means to an end? Which character used it? Again, why was this tactic chosen for that specific situation?
Essay Topic 3
Describe the characteristics of a satirical play. Why is comedy often used along with satire to make a point? Use examples from The Memorandum as references to your description. Also, explain what the target of the satire in the play is.
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This section contains 401 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) |
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