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

Short Answer Questions

1. Where was Murray when he forgot what day it was?

2. Where does Act 2, Part 2, take place?

3. What do we hear at the beginning of Act 2, Part 2?

4. What does Leo call Murray over the phone?

5. What kind of fruit does Nick offer Sandra?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The theme of the bonds of family is used in a different ways in A Thousand Clowns. Discuss the ways this theme is used and between which people it is most apparent. How does this theme affect each character in the play? Are only blood relatives involved? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

Murray's character develops and changes throughout the play. Describe the process of Murray's character development beginning with Act 1 and working your way through Act 3. What instances in Murray's "journey" affect him as a character? What other characters help shape Murray into a different person? Murray doesn't change in every way. What personal characteristics remain the same? Why?

Essay Topic 3

In the play, A Thousand Clowns, Nick is in danger of being removed from Murray's care. This is obviously a serious issue and concern for most people, but why do you think the writer, Herb Gardner, took a comedic approach to something that could be so dramatic? What differences would the story have if it were a drama instead of a comedy? Would you have enjoyed the play as much? Which characters would change and which characters would remain the same? Why?

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This section contains 309 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample