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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. The prologue begins with a comparison of what?

2. Why does Petulant hire three prostitutes?

3. Who told Lady Wishfort about Mirabell's deception?

4. What is the relationship between Witwoud and Sir Wilfull Witwoud?

5. What does Mrs. Marwood claim while talking to Mrs. Fainall?

Short Essay Questions

1. Explain what Mrs. Marwood learned when she stayed in the closet in Lady Wishfort's dressing room. How does she react?

2. Who is the most important character in the play? Describe him.

3. Describe Fainall's character.

4. Describe what we know about Mrs. Marwood at the beginning of Act 2, Scene 1.

5. Describe Lady Wishfort.

6. Do you think that a prologue is a good way to introduce a play? Why or why not?

7. Why does Mrs. Fainall support Mirabell's plans?

8. In what way(s) is the play different from the usual farce audiences were accustomed to?

9. Describe Petulant.

10. Describe Mirabell's feelings for Mrs. Millamant when he discusses his love for her with Fainall in Act 1, Scene 2 in the chocolate house.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Did you like the ending of the play? Do you think it was consistent with the events leading up to the conclusion? How would you have changed it? Write a brief essay explaining how you felt about Congreve's ending.

Essay Topic 2

Find at least three examples in the play which show how Mirabell feels about Mrs. Millamant. Is his love true? What is true love? Explain your point of view.

Essay Topic 3

Why do you think that the audiences of Restoration society did not like the play? Would audiences today be more receptive? Why or why not.

(see the answer keys)

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