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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. What does Alceste want Celimene to tell Basque?

2. Which word best describes the symbolism of Alceste's visitor arriving just as he is waiting for Celimene's judgment on their relationship?

3. What is Alceste's response to Basque's news at the beginning of Act 2, Scene 5?

4. How does Celimene feel about one of her visitors wanting to leave?

5. Who is the man in uniform that arrives in Act 2, Scene 6?

Short Essay Questions

1. When Celimene gossips about members of the royal court to Clitandre and Acaste, why does this upset Alceste?

2. Alceste becomes very upset and decides to leave when Basque announces a second visitor. What should Celimene do to convince Alceste to stay?

3. Why is Dubios flustered in Act Four, Scene Four?

4. Celimene is unable to make a decision about whether she prefers Alceste or Oronte. Why do you believe she cannot decide?

5. Based on the remarks of the other characters in Act Two, Scene Four, what is said about Celimene's personality?

6. What do we learn is the result of Alceste's court case in Act 5, Scene 1?

7. When Act 3, Scene 5 ends, what does Arsinoé turn the conversation to?

8. In Act 2, Scene 6, a uniformed man comes to see Alceste. Who is this uniformed man, and what does he want?

9. The previous two visitors, Acaste and Clitandre, both came to see Celimene. When they arrived, Alceste protested the interruption. How do you think Celimene might have felt now that Alceste has a visitor?

10. In Act Three, Scene One, why does Clitandre find Acaste's response to his question amusing?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare and contrast Alceste and Philinte's views on honesty.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the theme of honesty and compassion throughout the play. Be sure to explain the importance of the opening scene between Alceste, Philinte, and the person he meets but cannot remember.

Essay Topic 3

In the character of Arsinoé, the playwright illustrates the problem of Alceste's personality. Prudery is not goodness. Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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