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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. Who is the only character onstage when the curtain opens for the second time in Act 1?

2. What does Claire push off the table?

3. What does Tom advise Harry to do?

4. Who is the first character to come onstage in Act 1?

5. What happens after the first character onstage exits?

Short Essay Questions

1. Claire agrees to unlock the door for Tom under what condition?

2. What does Claire do as a result of her anger and disillusionment with Tom?

3. After being rejected by Tom and hearing the doctor's diagnosis, who does Claire turn to next for comfort?

4. After Harry leaves to smoke, what does Tom confide to Dick?

5. What is the symbolism of the tower room?

6. What are the names and conditions of the two special plants in the greenhouse?

7. Why is Claire angry about Tom's declaration?

8. Why does Claire ask Anthony to view the plant first?

9. What does Harry realize when he sees that Claire has strangled Tom?

10. How does Tom respond to Claire's request in order for the door to be unlocked?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Claire's husband, Harry, seems to find insight into Claire's needs and motivations only after he sees that she has strangled Tom. Why did this murderous action prompt understanding when her work with the plants did not?

Essay Topic 2

Why is Claire so unwilling or unable to show love to her daughter, Elizabeth? Do you believe Elizabeth was raised by Adelaide because there was too much tension between Claire and Elizabeth, or is there tension between Claire and Elizabeth because Elizabeth was raised by Adelaide?

Essay Topic 3

How does the playwright use sound to illustrate Claire's need to find meaning in her life at the expense of others? Consider the wind, the buzzer, and the Victrola as examples.

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