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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. Why does Mama want to put $3000 put in the bank?

2. According to Joseph Asagai, what is exceptional in his village?

3. What does Mama compare Big Walter to?

4. Mama tells Walter Lee that she wants him to be:

5. As the scene opens, what does Beneatha carry?

Short Essay Questions

1. Beneatha sarcastically asks George "Why read books---why go to school?" Give her answer.

2. Ruth wants to take a hot bath at the new house. Explain why that is a luxury for her.

3. What does Beneatha want to do at the end of the play?

4. Before this scene we hadn't realized the scope of Walter Lee's dreams. What are they?

5. Why does Walter Lee finally decide not to take Karl Lindner's money?

6. Walter Lee asks Mr. Lindner to get out, but Mr. Lindner leaves something behind. What?

7. Why does Walter Lee ask Karl Lindner to come back to the apartment?

8. How do we know that Beneatha tends to hold political positions that promote civil rights?

9. Mama explains to Mrs. Johnson that Walter Lee is busy resting. What conclusion does Mrs. Johnson jump to on hearing that?

10. How does Mama show understanding when Beneatha says that George is a fool?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In speaking about the new house, Ruth asks Mama, "Is there a whole lot of sunlight?" Explain the dramatic contrast of the dark, dingy apartment set with the idea of a room full of light. What does a new environment represent to the Younger family?

Essay Topic 2

Identify and describe the following dramatic structures in the play: Exposition, Rising Action, Turning Points, Climax, and Falling Action. Use dialogue and text examples to support your descriptions.

Essay Topic 3

At the end of the play, Mama tells Ruth that Walter Lee came into "his manhood." What is Mama saying about male gender roles? How does her attitude contrast with Walter Lee's thoughts about manhood?

(see the answer keys)

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