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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 was Norman's overall impression of Bill?

2. What does Norman call Billy from time to time?

3. What is Norman's reaction to Chelsea's response?

4. What is Norman's response to Chelsea's request?

5. How does Chelsea greet her mother?

Short Essay Questions

1. What can be inferred by the fact that Norman calls Billy by the name Chelsea from time to time?

2. Describe Ethel's concern and role in that day's fishing venture.

3. What does this opening scene suggest about the relationship between Norman and Billy?

4. What do you think this first interaction that you described in question #31 implies?

5. The fact that Ethel twice suggests that Chelsea make amends with her father because he is old and will not live much longer seems to clearly be foreshadowing something. What do you think it foreshadows?

6. The opening conversation in this scene brings up an idea already discussed in the previous scene. What does the conversation concern?

7. How does the first interaction between Chelsea and her parents show the reader the relationship between Chelsea and each of her parents?

8. The scene when Billy Ray is introduced gives subtle clues as to how Norman may not be quite as gruff as first appears and how Chelsea misses the clue. Elaborate on this scene.

9. Describe the first interaction between Ethel and Chelsea when they are alone.

10. Give a brief synopsis of the conversation Chelsea and Ethel have about Norman as Chelsea just arrives.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Act 2, Scene 2, Ethel and Norman are packing when the phone rings and Bill is on the line to invite the elderly couple to visit in California. Answer the following questions in a coherent essay using detailed examples from the entire play:

1). After Bill's interaction with Norman when they first meet, do you believe Bill sincerely wishes to spend time with Norman again? Describe the interaction between the two men and then explain why you think Bill does or does not want to have Norman to his home.

2). After Chelsea gets on the line and re-issues the invitation, Norman is still hesitant until he thinks about the fact that he'll see Billy again. How would you feel if your father only wants to visit you to see your stepson? Do you think Norman is being honest with himself about Billy being the main reason Norman will go to California?

3). Taking in consideration the phone exchange between Chelsea and Norman, and the fact that Norman agrees to go to California only to see Billy, do you think the relationship between Norman and Chelsea has improved at all since Chelsea's visit? What else can the two do to improve their relationship?

Essay Topic 2

In a play, setting is an integral part of the entire story. Answer the following questions in a coherent essay using detailed examples from the entire play:

1). Describe the setting at the opening of the play.

2). How do you think the setting contributes to the play?

3). What clues does the setting offer about the characters?

4). What would you think about the owners of a house if you walked into such a setting?

Essay Topic 3

In Act 2, Scene 1, Ethel is left alone after Norman and Billy leave. She picks up her old doll, Elmer, and begins to reminisce about her childhood. Answer the following questions in a coherent essay using detailed examples from the entire play:

1). How do each of the following characters--Norman, Ethel, Chelsea, and Charlie--reminisce about days past? Include what they are remembering and the emotional impact the memory holds.

2). Is there any harm in re-living in one's mind the past? What if the past is hurtful, i.e., Chelsea's memories about her father? What if the past memories are of unfulfilled desire, i.e., Charlie feeling sorrow at not marrying Chelsea. Give your opinion with detailed examples.

3). Can re-living the past keep one from really enjoying the present? Give examples from your own experiences and the play.

(see the answer keys)

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