Reading Check and Short Answer Questions on key points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

SCENES 1-4

Reading Check

1. What is Vivian’s academic specialty?

2. What unusual comment does Vivian make about her impending death?

3. Which type of cancer does Vivian have?

4. How does Vivian respond to Dr. Kelekian’s suggestion that she take time off from work?

5. What word does Vivian use to describe herself in relation to her “contribution to the discipline of English literature”? (Scene 3)

6. What is the “salient characteristic” of John Donne’s poetry?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. Summarize the first stage direction of the play. How does this stage direction serve to characterize the protagonist?

2. Which two literary terms does Vivian explicitly mention in her opening monologue? How does she feel about the inclusion of these literary terms?

3. Who is Professor E. M. Ashford? What is her main feedback regarding Vivian’s paper on “Holy Sonnet Six” and how does this memory link to her present conversation with Dr. Kelekian?

4. Summarize Vivian’s academic achievements. How are these juxtaposed against the reality of her present situation?

5. Describe Vivian’s interaction with Jason.