View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. When Berniece sees Boy Willie telling Maretha stories, what does she ask Boy Willie to do?

2. What does Lymon say that he is looking for in a relationship?

3. Which character is described as never being able to hold down a job and constantly getting into trouble?

4. Who tells Berniece to stop carrying the load of her family history?

5. Who tells Berniece that Boy Willie is going to be removing the piano?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The exorcism in the final scene of the play proves to be a powerful symbol for the way that the family has chosen to move forward. Create a list of three things that the exorcism symbolizes in the play. Choose two characters and explain how their roles were pivotal in the success of the final exorcism.

Essay Topic 2

The Charles family spends a lot of time arguing about their family legacy. Choose one instance in which the Charles family attempts to discuss their family history. What object is used as a symbol for their family's legacy? How is that object treated by the family? How does the treatment of the object reflect the family history it will leave behind?

Essay Topic 3

Dreams prove to be an interesting and important way for characters in the text to receive divine messages. Avery's dream, in particular, is given the most symbolic weight within the story. Explain the symbolism of Avery's dream as it relates to his future and the themes within the play as a whole.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 332 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample