Edward Albee's The Zoo Story Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of the exposition in a play?

To present the climax of the story

To create suspense and tension

To introduce characters and setting (correct)

To resolve the main conflict

Which stage of a play is primarily considered the turning point?

Exposition

Denouement

Catastrophe

Climax (correct)

In the context of a play, what does 'denouement' signify?

The introduction of the main conflict

The resolution of conflicts and mysteries (correct)

The final struggle between protagonists

The rising action of the plot

What is the significance of the term 'catastrophe' in drama?

It is often associated specifically with tragedy Signup and view all the answers

What does Aristotle mean when he states that 'plot is the soul of the tragedy'?

Plot is essential for the structure of the story Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a 'complex plot'?

It features reversal or recognition, or both Signup and view all the answers

How is a linear plot typically characterized?

By events causing one another in a straightforward way Signup and view all the answers

In the denouement, which of the following outcomes may occur?

The protagonist may achieve success or face failure Signup and view all the answers

What does Jerry symbolize in his interaction with Peter?

A teacher guiding Peter towards maturity Signup and view all the answers

How does Jerry view intimacy according to the themes presented in The Zoo Story?

It requires a deep understanding and compassion Signup and view all the answers

What economic background does Peter represent in The Zoo Story?

An affluent publishing executive Signup and view all the answers

What social critique is hinted at through Jerry's character?

Critique of the alienation in modern urban society Signup and view all the answers

What does Jerry's approach to personal space challenge?

Established social norms regarding interaction Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant theme in The Zoo Story?

The issue of class differences and human connection Signup and view all the answers

How is Peter characterized in contrast to Jerry?

As a symbol of tradition and propriety Signup and view all the answers

What is the critical view expressed by Mary Castiglie Anderson regarding Jerry's role?

He acts as a catalyst for Peter's growth Signup and view all the answers

What was Popova's reason for instructing Luka not to give Toby any oats?

She was upset and wanted to punish Toby. Signup and view all the answers

What main conflict arises between Smirnov and Popova?

A duel challenge over personal honor. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements reflects Luka’s view on Popova’s beauty?

He praises it as unmatched in the village. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of Brecht's alienation techniques in theatre?

To make the audience critical viewers rather than passive spectators. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a technique used by Brecht in his alienation methods?

Constantly immersing the audience in a storyline. Signup and view all the answers

What is Smirnov’s stance regarding shooting Popova?

He has no intention of shooting her. Signup and view all the answers

How does Popova react when Smirnov professes his love for her?

She seems confused and unsure. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of street theatre?

Direct interaction with the audience and dramatization of social issues. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the Theatre of Cruelty as conceived by Antonin Artaud?

It integrates elements of surrealism and ritualistic performance. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the nature of the marriage between Popova and Smirnov?

It was loveless and based on social expectations. Signup and view all the answers

What is significant about the title 'The Bear' in relation to the play's themes?

It serves as a metaphor for emotional conflicts. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of the episodic plot in Brecht's epic theatre?

It consists of interconnected scenes that encourage reflection. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Antonin Artaud seek to shock his audience through his Theatre of Cruelty?

To purge them of elemental emotions and instincts. Signup and view all the answers

What does the character of Popova illustrate in the play 'The Bear'?

Independence and strength. Signup and view all the answers

How does street theatre engage its audience differently compared to traditional theatre?

Through direct participation and interaction with performers. Signup and view all the answers

What does the use of masks and changing costumes in Brecht's theatre signify?

The awareness that the performance is a theatrical representation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of dialogue in drama?

To communicate between the playwright and audience Signup and view all the answers

According to Aristotle, which of the following is NOT one of the six elements of tragedy?

Setting Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'hamartia' refer to in the context of tragedy?

The tragic flaw Signup and view all the answers

Which type of plot involves peripeteia and anagnorisis?

Complex plot Signup and view all the answers

What is the outcome of experiencing tragedy according to Aristotle?

Calm state of mind Signup and view all the answers

How does Aristotle describe the relationship between plot and character in tragedy?

Plot is more important than character Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes Marlowe’s approach to tragedy?

Emphasizing ordinary individuals as heroes Signup and view all the answers

What emotional response does tragedy aim to evoke in its audience?

Pity and fear Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Edward Albee

American dramatist born March 12, 1928, Virginia, USA
Known for works like The Zoo Story (1958), The Sandbox (1959), Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1962), A Delicate Balance (1966), and Three Tall Women (1994).
Some critics believe his work is an American variant of the "Theater of the Absurd"
Three of his plays won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and two of his other works won the Tony Award for Best Play

The Zoo Story Character List

Peter:
- Publishing executive and family man in his early forties
- Represents convention and propriety and seems to have achieved the American Dream
Jerry:
- Eccentric transient in his late thirties that lives in poverty on the Upper West Side
- Feels profoundly lonely, which motivates him to seek companionship from strangers
- Contemplative and critical of society, eager to share his opinions about life, love, and isolation
Peter and Jerry’s conversation is the centerpiece of The Zoo Story

Intimacy Theme

Jerry has unconventional ideas about what it means to be intimate with another person
Believes that intimacy doesn't necessarily need to be accumulated over time, but can be achieved by approaching a stranger
Jerry’s defiance of received ideas about personal space can be interpreted as a critique of the alienation imposed by modern, urban society
Jerry represents a challenge to the norms of modern, polite society as seen in Peter

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Description

Explore the intricate character dynamics in Edward Albee's 'The Zoo Story'. This quiz delves into the personalities of Peter and Jerry, their contrasting worlds, and the themes of isolation and society. Test your understanding of Albee's representation of the American Dream through these compelling characters.