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1. Why is there no set description in Act 1?

The lack of set description was most likely a deliberate choice on Pinter's part. Without set description, the setting has the effect of despair and desolation to reflect the mood of the characters and play and leave the interpretation up to the audience.

2. Why are the two women at the prison?

The two women are at the prison because their husbands are being held there, and the women were summoned to appear. The audience doesn't know the reason that their husbands are being held yet.

3. What is the Young Woman's first complaint to the Officer?

The Young Woman speaks on behalf of the Old Woman, since the old Woman is silent through Act 1. The Young Woman's first complaint is that a dog has bitten the Old Woman.

4. What is the Young Woman's second complaint to the Officer?

The Young Woman's second complaint is that she and the old Woman were summoned to come to the prison at 9 AM and have been waiting all day in the snow.

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