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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. ____________ once had an attack of conscience when he was operating on a patient, thinking that the patient's death was his fault.

2. __________ says that a woman can only be a friend once they have been an acquaintance and then a mistress.

3. Where is the beginning of Act Two set as the play opens again?

4. ___________ interrupts Astrov's speech by saying that he still uses wood in his outhouses and fireplaces.

5. Vanya notes that he used to idolize _________, though he does not anymore.

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Vanya believe that he is a foolish man after the events of the previous scene?

2. What does Yelena suggest Astrov do in regards to his feelings about Sonya?

3. Why doesn't Astrov leave the scene when Vanya asks him to leave?

4. When does Astrov believe a woman can become a friend of a man?

5. When Sonya returns, what does Astrov say he needs to do so he has to leave the room?

6. What does Yelena think about the fact that Astrov comes around to the house every day instead of monthly?

7. What does Sonya come into the room to remind the Professor of?

8. How does Astrov describe the project that he has been working on when he walks into the room?

9. What does Sonya say has been happening while Vanya has been living his illusions?

10. Why does Vanya protest the announcement and the decision the Professor makes in his announcement?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Astrov believes that places where trees have been well-tended are places where people are more artistic and wise.

Part 1: Why do you think Astrov speculates that well-tended areas of nature produce more artistic and wise people?

Part 2: Do you agree with the observation of Astrov? Why or why not?

Part 3: What do you think might also have an influence on people, making them more artistic and wise?

Essay Topic 2

Marina notes that God will continue to think about the people of the future, even if the people of the future don't think much of the past.

Part 1: Why do you think the past is so important for Astrov in this play?

Part 2: Why do you think Marina keeps a positive outlook about how people will be remembered in the future?

Part 3: What does this play have to say about the past and the future? Is the play positive or negative about time in general?

Essay Topic 3

The character of Vanya is one that seems to be looking for attention much of the time, always thinking that others aren't noticing him.

Part 1: Why do you think Vanya wants more attention in this play?

Part 2: Do you think Vanya deserves to have more attention than he is given within the play?

Part 3: How do you think the play might be different if Vanya was more confident in himself?

(see the answer keys)

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