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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 Leo say that catches Max's attention in act 1, scene 2?

2. How does Leo feel about the play Max finds?

3. According to Leo, what could not possibly compare to going to jail?

4. How does act 1, scene 3 end?

5. What is the name of Ulla's song?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are the first impressions given of Franz?

2. Describe what happens on-stage after Max, Leo, and Franz are pardoned.

3. What does Max vow to do at the end of act 1, scene 1?

4. Why do Max and Leo approach Roger DeBris to direct the play?

5. Who is Hold-Me Touch-Me?

6. What is Max's job and his history with show business?

7. Why is Max kneeling in the beginning of act 1, scene 4?

8. In the beginning of the musical, what has happened to Bialystock's latest production and why?

9. What wordplay is being used to comical affect with Ulla?

10. What is significant about Max's gift to Leo in act 2, scene 9?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In the character of Ulla, the archetype of the "dumb blond" is brought into the show. However, in many ways, Ulla defies that particular stereotype. Write an essay about how Ulla manages to simultaneously embody the stereotype while being her own character.

Essay Topic 2

Why is The Producers set in 1959? How is it significant to the story? To the characters? How would an audience in 1959 react to a sympathetic musical about Hitler? Could this musical be set in any other period of time? Why or why not? Cite specific examples from the text to support your statements.

Essay Topic 3

Mel Brooks introduces a few female characters who are mostly played for laughs: Ulla and Hold Me-Touch Me (as well as the other little old ladies). Is his treatment of these characters sexist? Why or why not? Points to consider:

1) How the male characters treat the female characters.

2) How the female characters view themselves.

3) The use of sex with these characters.

Create a strong thesis and cite specific examples from the text.

(see the answer keys)

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