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

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Laurel say she is not inviting Alan and Arnold to her parent's home?

2. What does David encourage Ed to do and what is Ed's response?

3. What does Laurel try to hide?

4. How might one characterize Laurel's motive for inviting Arnold over for the weekend?

5. To whom is Ed reading?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In "The International Stud: Scene 3," Arnold finally contacts Ed, who admits he is dating a woman. It seems likely from the conversation between Arnold and Ed that Ed is very aware of family and societal pressures to be "normal." Choose one of the following topics and write a well-developed essay using specific examples both from the text and any research you complete:

1. In what ways does the culture in which you live define normalcy as heterosexuality? Use examples from movies, t.v., school, church, and other cultural institutions. Discuss the ramifications of bucking cultural pressure and living life as a homosexual.

2. How does one's family of origin help shape one's perceptions of what is normal? What sort of overt, covert, and unconscious pressure is placed on one to conform to one's family's definition of normal? What are some behaviors and beliefs that are considered normal? Give examples both from the play, Torch Song Triology and your own life.

3. Discuss three famous people who have chosen to live apart from what is considered normal: not necessarily as homosexuals, but in any way that society might label as different or not normal. Do you admire these people's choices? Do they violate any moral laws according to how you have been raised. Could you see your self making a similar choice? Include, if you are comfortable in doing so, ways that you have chosen to be or do what is considered not normal.

Essay Topic 2

In the scene titled, "Fugue in a Nursery, Counter Subject," Arnold and Alan are resistant to joining Ed and Laurel in their "normal" Sunday routine. Choose one of the following topics and write a well-developed essay using specific examples both from the text and any research you complete:

1. Discuss how the term "Counter Subject" is used in musical compositions (particularly in the musical composition of a fugue) and how it is applicable to the action of this scene. Be sure to use specific examples and details.

2. Using the entire play as a source of material, outline Laurel's actions and manipulations, both implied and explicit, and discuss whether she has been successful and appropriate in her behavior.

3. Discuss the commonalities among all the main characters, (Arnold, Alan, Ed, and Laurel) as to their wants and needs as human beings in relationship. Can their needs/desires be universal to all humans? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

In "The International Stud: Scene 5," Ed talks to Arnold after Arnold's performance. Arnold expresses his hurt that Ed was/is unwilling to introduce Arnold to his parents as Ed's lover. Discuss the following ideas in a well-developed essay using specific examples both from the text and any research you complete:

1. Do you think Ed is being fair to Arnold? Why or why not?

2. What do you think you would do if you were Arnold in this scene?

3. Have you ever had a friend or romantic interest that you would be unwilling or hesitant to introduce to your parents? Did you do it anyway? Why or why not?

4. If Arnold were to go to a therapist or "peer counselor" and describe the situation with Ed, what do you think that person would tell Arnold? Would you tell Arnold the same thing?

(see the answer keys)

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