"If I Were You" Summary

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Questions and Answers

What is Gerrard's initial reaction when the Intruder enters?

He attempts to physically confront the Intruder.
He displays immediate fear and panic.
He ignores the Intruder, pretending not to notice him.
He greets the Intruder pleasantly, though surprised. (correct)

Why does the Intruder say he is visiting Gerrard?

To gather information and potentially harm Gerrard. (correct)
To apologize for a previous misunderstanding.
To seek help with a personal problem.
To engage in a friendly conversation.

What is Gerrard primarily doing when the play opens?

Cleaning his horn-rimmed glasses.
Making a phone call. (correct)
Reading a book by the divan.
Packing a travelling bag.

When the Intruder asks if Gerrard lives alone, how does Gerrard respond initially?

He responds with sarcasm, commenting on the Intruder’s inflection. (A) Signup and view all the answers

The intruder's plan involves:

Impersonating Gerrard after murdering him. (B) Signup and view all the answers

The Intruder accuses Gerrard of lying about:

Owning a car. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred from the line, 'Yes, I expect I’ll still be here, but you mustn’t count on that...'?

Gerrard is unsure if he will be at the cottage. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does Gerrard use humor in his conversation with the Intruder?

To deflect from the seriousness of the situation and maintain control. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes Gerrard's tone of voice as indicated in the stage directions?

Cultured (D) Signup and view all the answers

Based on the setting described, what is the most likely reason for Gerrard living in a lonely cottage?

He enjoys a quiet, solitary life. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does Gerrard say he would like to do before answering the Intruder's questions?

Change his position to be more comfortable. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What detail suggests that Gerrard might be involved in something secretive or be preparing to leave suddenly?

The travelling bag he is packing. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does Gerrard sarcastically offer to tell the Intruder?

The story of his life, including being stolen by gypsies. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is Gerrard's given first name?

Vincent (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why does the intruder enter 'silently' according to the stage directions?

To surprise Gerrard. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'count on' mean, as used by Gerrard in his phone conversation?

To rely or depend on something. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does the Intruder reveal about his intentions towards Gerrard?

He aims to kill Gerrard and assume his identity. (B) Signup and view all the answers

The Intruder breaks into Gerrard's cottage primarily because:

He intends to use Gerrard's identity to evade the police. (D) Signup and view all the answers

When Gerrard says, 'A little harsh, isn’t it?' to the Intruder's plan to kill him, what is he primarily trying to do?

Buy time and assess the situation while maintaining composure. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Intruder's statement, 'I’m wanted for murder already, and they can’t hang me twice'?

It explains why he is unafraid of the consequences of killing Gerrard. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Gerrard remarks, 'You’re planning a gratuitous double, so to speak. Admitted you’ve nothing to lose, but what have you to gain?' What is he attempting to do with this statement?

Appeal to the Intruder's sense of logic and self-preservation. (B) Signup and view all the answers

The Intruder mentions that he knows Gerrard never sees tradespeople. What does this imply about the Intruder?

He has been surveilling Gerrard and gathering information. (B) Signup and view all the answers

When the Intruder says, 'I’ve taken a fancy to you, but it’s just got to be done,' what does this reveal about his character?

He is showing off his ability to compartmentalize his emotions. (C) Signup and view all the answers

The Intruder describes his 'speciality' as 'jewel robbery'. How does this detail contribute to the overall plot?

It establishes the Intruder as a professional criminal, not merely an opportunist. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the primary function of dictionary entries in language learning?

To offer guidance on correct word meaning, usage, and grammatical function, aiding in comprehension and application. (B) Signup and view all the answers

When enacting a play, what is the significance of italicized words before a dialogue?

They provide instructions on the tone, emotion, and actions that should accompany the dialogue. (D) Signup and view all the answers

In transforming a play into a story, which element is most crucial to retain the play's original impact?

Preservation of the exciting plot and witty tone of the play. (A) Signup and view all the answers

If Gerrard and the Intruder were characters in a novel, which narrative technique would best reveal their contrasting personalities?

Illustrating their qualities through their actions, dialogues, and interactions with each other. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Imagine you are adapting a scene from the play featuring a tense confrontation. Which adaptation choice would most effectively heighten the tension and suspense for the audience?

All of the above (E) Signup and view all the answers

Why does Gerrard suggest the Intruder is luckier than most melodramatic villains?

Because the Intruder has arrived at a moment of opportunity, before making a fatal mistake. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary flaw in the Intruder's plan to assume Gerrard's identity, as hinted by Gerrard?

The Intruder has not considered the broader implications and practicalities of living as Gerrard after the murder. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What motivates the Intruder to reveal details about his past crime to Gerrard?

A need to justify his plan and convince Gerrard of its inevitability. (A) Signup and view all the answers

When the Intruder says, "I’ve got a reason for everything," what is he trying to convey?

He is trying to convey that his actions are justifiable and logical in his own mind. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does Gerrard mean when he describes himself as a "mystery man"?

He is alluding to a hidden identity and secretive lifestyle that attracts attention. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does the Intruder's attempt to mimic Gerrard's voice and mannerisms reveal a weakness in his plan?

It highlights the superficiality of his plan, focusing on imitation rather than genuine understanding. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does Gerrard's reference to melodramas suggest about his perception of the situation?

He believes he can outsmart the Intruder by exploiting his predictable behavior. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the Intruder’s statement: “I’m going to be Vincent Charles Gerrard, see.” reveal about his understanding of identity?

It shows he believes identity is solely based on appearance and superficial traits. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Gerrard claims he is often 'here today and gone tomorrow' and avoids tradespeople. What does this behavior primarily suggest about Gerrard's lifestyle?

He is involved in illegal activities and must maintain a low profile to evade detection. (D) Signup and view all the answers

When Gerrard mentions 'The game’s up as far as I’m concerned,' what does he imply about his situation?

He believes his criminal activities have been discovered and is ready to face the consequences. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Gerrard attempts to convince the Intruder that he is also a criminal on the run. Which of the following is the least plausible reason for Gerrard to fabricate this story?

To genuinely seek a partner in crime, as he is lonely and needs assistance. (D) Signup and view all the answers

When the Intruder says, 'Hearing about you was one of my luckiest breaks', what can we infer about the Intruder's motive prior to arriving at Gerrard's house?

He was initially planning a simple burglary, but learned of Gerrard's identity by chance and changed his plans. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Gerrard says, 'If you shoot, you’ll hang for sure. If not as yourself, then as Vincent Charles Gerrard.' What is the most likely purpose of this statement?

To confuse the intruder and create doubt about the success of his plan to assume Gerrard's identity. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Gerrard mentions a man 'posted on the main road' who will 'ring up if he sees the police'. What is the most probable reason this 'man' exists in Gerrard's story?

To create a sense of urgency and manipulate the Intruder into making a hasty decision. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Gerrard offers the Intruder a chance to escape with him, saying, 'Come with me in the car. I can use you. If you find it’s a frame, you’ve got me in the car, and you’ve still got your gun.' Why does he make this offer?

He is trying to make the Intruder feel in control so he can ease suspicions and encourage cooperation. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Considering the context of the dialogue, which of the following actions would be the riskiest for the Intruder at the point when Gerrard is urging him to leave in the car?

Agreeing to leave with Gerrard without verifying the presence of the 'man on the main road'. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Cultured

Sophisticated; well-mannered.

Count on

Depend on; rely on.