20th Century American Theater: Explore the Evolution of American Drama

Question 1

What is a defining characteristic of absurdist theater?

Accepted Answer

Abandonment of traditional play structure and logical progression

Answer

Emphasis on everyday language and ordinary settings

Answer

Heavy use of symbols and allegories to express psychological ideas

Answer

Focus on historical accuracy and direct social commentary

Question 2

What was a defining characteristic of American theater in the 20th century?

Accepted Answer

Exploring social and political issues through realism

Answer

Sticking to classic European theater styles

Answer

Focusing on lighthearted entertainment

Answer

Ignoring traditional theater rules

Question 3

Which of the following was a dominant theme in the plays of Tennessee Williams?

Accepted Answer

Alienation and the search for meaning

Answer

The pursuit of the American Dream

Answer

The impact of industrialization on society

Answer

The complexities of racial identity

Question 4

Which of these playwrights is known for rejecting traditional structures and employing innovative techniques?

Accepted Answer

Edward Albee

Answer

Arthur Miller

Answer

Neil Simon

Answer

August Wilson

Question 5

How did the Great Depression influence American theater in the 1930s?

Accepted Answer

Promoted a surge in socially conscious plays

Answer

Increased production of escapist hiburan

Answer

Contributed to the decline of regional theaters

Answer

Led to a rise in historical dramas

Question 6

Which playwright is renowned for their witty and satirical comedies?

Accepted Answer

Neil Simon

Answer

David Mamet

Answer

Sam Shepard

Answer

Harold Pinter

Question 7

The use of improvisation and viewer participation is a common feature of which theatrical style?

Accepted Answer

Performative theater

Answer

Method acting

Answer

Epic theater

Answer

Naturalism

Question 8

Which of the following playwrights is associated with the 'Theater of the Absurd' movement, known for its exploration of existential themes and the breakdown of traditional dramatic conventions?

Accepted Answer

Samuel Beckett

Answer

Eugene O'Neill

Answer

Arthur Miller

Answer

Tennessee Williams

Question 9

The 'method acting' technique, which emphasizes emotional authenticity and in-depth character analysis, is most closely associated with which American acting coach and practitioner?

Accepted Answer

Lee Strasberg

Answer

Konstantin Stanislavski

Answer

Stella Adler

Answer

Sandford Meisner

Question 10

Realism in American theater is characterized by its focus on:

Accepted Answer

Everyday life, ordinary people, and social issues

Answer

Historical events, grand themes, and poetic language

Answer

Subconscious themes, symbolism, and dreamlike imagery

Answer

Experimental techniques, non-naturalistic elements, and audience participation

Question 11

Which of the following playwrights is known for their use of rich symbolism, exploration of subconscious themes, and poetic language in their plays?

Accepted Answer

Tennessee Williams

Answer

Eugene O'Neill

Answer

Edward Albee

Answer

August Wilson

Question 12

The 'kitchen sink drama' movement in American theater emerged in the post-World War II era as a response to:

Accepted Answer

The lack of representation of working-class experiences and perspectives on stage

Answer

The dominance of commercial theater and its focus on escapist entertainment

Answer

The influence of European avant-garde theater and its experimental techniques

Answer

The rise of television and its impact on the popularity of live theater

Question 13

Edward Albee's play 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' is renowned for its exploration of which central theme?

Accepted Answer

The fragility and complexities of marriage and human relationships

Answer

The generational conflict between parents and their children

Answer

The destructive power of secrets and the corrosive nature of lies

Answer

The existential search for meaning and purpose in a seemingly meaningless world

Question 14

Which type of American theater is characterized by its use of improvisation, audience participation, and a focus on spontaneity and interaction?

Accepted Answer

Experimental theater

Answer

Regional theater

Answer

Musical theater

Answer

Broadway theater

Question 15

The musical 'Hamilton' by Lin-Manuel Miranda broke new ground by blending historical events with which unique musical genre?

Accepted Answer

Hip-hop

Answer

Jazz

Answer

Opera

Answer

Classical

Question 16

How did immigration contribute to the evolution of American theater in the 20th century?

Accepted Answer

It brought new perspectives and experiences, enriching the range of stories and themes explored in American plays.

Accepted Answer

It created a new audience for American theater, leading to the establishment of ethnic theaters and performance spaces.

Answer

It had a minimal impact on American theater, as immigrants were primarily focused on adapting to their new lives.

Answer

It discouraged immigrants from participating in American theater due to prejudice and discrimination.

Question 17

How did expressionism shape American theater in the 20th century?

Accepted Answer

By using symbols, distortion, and heightened emotion.

Answer

By emphasizing realistic dialogue and everyday experiences.

Answer

By using elaborate sets and costumes.

Answer

By promoting political and social realism.

Question 18

Who is considered the father of American theatrical realism?

Accepted Answer

Eugene O'Neill

Answer

Arthur Miller

Answer

August Wilson

Answer

Tennessee Williams

Question 19

Which playwright's works often delved into themes of social injustice and African-American experience?

Accepted Answer

August Wilson

Answer

Thornton Wilder

Answer

Lillian Hellman

Answer

Edward Albee

Question 20

Which theatrical movement, emerging in the mid-20th century, incorporated elements of absurdism and surrealism?

Accepted Answer

Theater of the Absurd

Answer

Naturalism

Answer

Expressionism

Answer

Epic Theater

Question 21

Who wrote 'Waiting for Godot,' a pivotal play in the Theater of the Absurd?

Accepted Answer

Samuel Beckett

Answer

Harold Pinter

Answer

Eugene Ionesco

Answer

Jean-Paul Sartre

Question 22

Which technique, prevalent in 20th-century American theater, utilizes projections and multimedia to enhance storytelling?

Accepted Answer

Multimedia Theater

Answer

Method Acting

Answer

Epic Theater

Answer

Immersive Theater

Question 23

Which movement in American theater emphasized stylized acting and heightened sensory elements on stage?

Accepted Answer

Expressionism

Answer

Naturalism

Answer

Epic Theater

Answer

Method Acting

Question 24

Who penned 'The Glass Menagerie,' a poignant exploration of family dynamics?

Accepted Answer

Tennessee Williams

Answer

Arthur Miller

Answer

Eugene O'Neill

Answer

David Mamet

Question 25

Which acting technique involves actors fully immersing themselves in the emotional and psychological state of the character they portray?

Accepted Answer

Stanislavski Method

Answer

Brechtian Method

Answer

Improvisational Theater

Answer

Ensemble Theater

Question 26

Who wrote 'Death of a Salesman,' a critique of the American Dream?

Accepted Answer

Arthur Miller

Answer

Eugene O'Neill

Answer

August Wilson

Answer

David Mamet

Question 27

How has American theater contributed to social activism and progressive causes?

Accepted Answer

Raised awareness and educated audiences about social issues

Accepted Answer

Provided a platform for marginalized voices

Answer

Directly advocated for policies or candidates

Answer

Exclusively entertained audiences without social commentary

Question 28

Which of the following is considered a major movement in 20th-century American theater, characterized by the exploration of irrationality and the futility of existence?

Accepted Answer

Absurdism

Answer

Expressionism

Answer

Surrealism

Answer

Naturalism

Question 29

Eugene O'Neill's 'The Iceman Cometh' is considered an example of which theatrical style, emphasizing detailed realism in dialogue and settings?

Accepted Answer

Naturalism

Answer

Absurdism

Answer

Expressionism

Answer

Symbolism

Question 30

What is a defining characteristic of absurdist theater?

Accepted Answer

Exploration of irrationality and the futility of existence

Answer

Emphasis on realistic dialogue and settings

Answer

Use of elaborate costumes and scenery

Answer

Focus on historical events and themes

Question 31

Which of the following playwrights is known for their experimental and avant-garde works, often challenging theatrical conventions?

Accepted Answer

Samuel Beckett

Answer

Arthur Miller

Answer

Lorraine Hansberry

Answer

August Wilson

Question 32

How did the Great Depression influence American theater, leading to a shift in thematic focus and style?

Accepted Answer

It fostered the development of socially conscious plays.

Answer

It led to a decrease in escapist musicals.

Answer

It caused an increase in theater attendance.

Answer

It resulted in a decline in historical dramas.

Question 33

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of absurdist theater, which often defies traditional logic and structure?

Accepted Answer

Provides clear and straightforward resolutions to conflicts

Answer

Rejects traditional forms and conventions

Answer

Emphasizes the meaninglessness of existence

Answer

Uses symbolism and allegory

Question 34

Which of the following techniques is commonly employed in realism, aiming to accurately depict everyday speech and behavior?

Accepted Answer

Naturalistic dialogue

Answer

Minimalist staging

Answer

Use of symbolism

Answer

Brechtian alienation

Question 35

Who is widely recognized as the pioneering figure of American Realism in theater?

Accepted Answer

Eugene O'Neill

Answer

Tennessee Williams

Answer

Anton Chekhov

Answer

August Wilson

Question 36

Which major theme is explored in Arthur Miller's iconic play 'Death of a Salesman'?

Accepted Answer

The pursuit and disillusionment of the American Dream

Answer

The corrosive effects of capitalism on society

Answer

The struggle for paternal authority in a changing world

Answer

The philosophical anguish of human existence

Question 37

Which playwright is renowned for their contributions to the Theater of the Absurd?

Accepted Answer

Samuel Beckett

Answer

Edward Albee

Answer

Harold Pinter

Answer

Tom Stoppard

Question 38

Which of the following characteristics is associated with Eugene O'Neill's expressionist plays?

Accepted Answer

Heavy reliance on symbolism and dreamlike imagery

Answer

Use of stream-of-consciousness narration

Answer

Emphasizing concise dialogue and minimal stage directions

Answer

Presenting a strictly linear and chronological narrative

Question 39

Which playwright is recognized for their exploration of immigration and cultural identity in their plays?

Accepted Answer

María Irene Fornés

Answer

Romulus Linney

Answer

Mac Wellman

Answer

John Guare

Question 40

Which playwright is widely regarded as a pioneer of American realism?

Accepted Answer

Eugene O'Neill

Answer

Tennessee Williams

Answer

Arthur Miller

Question 41

Identify the key characteristic feature of absurdist plays:

Accepted Answer

They present life as meaningless and irrational.

Answer

They offer clear resolutions and moral lessons.

Answer

They focus on everyday life and naturalistic dialogue.

Answer

They are typically written in verse form.

Question 42

Which playwright is renowned for exploring Southern themes and characters in their work?

Accepted Answer

Tennessee Williams

Answer

Edward Albee

Answer

Arthur Miller

Answer

Eugene O'Neill

Question 43

What is the primary significance of the Group Theatre in the history of American theater?

Accepted Answer

It provided a training ground for influential actors and directors.

Answer

It was the first professional theater company established in the United States.

Answer

It was known for its radical and experimental productions.

Question 44

In Arthur Miller's acclaimed play "Death of a Salesman", which major theme is explored?

Accepted Answer

The failure of the American Dream

Answer

The rise of communism in the United States

Answer

The importance of family relationships

Answer

The dangers of societal conformity

Question 45

What unique aspect characterizes August Wilson's Century Cycle?

Accepted Answer

It chronicles the African American experience in each decade of the 20th century.

Answer

It is written in a unique experimental style.

Answer

It was performed exclusively by African American actors.

Question 46

Which playwright is known for employing non-traditional staging techniques and unconventional characters in their plays?

Accepted Answer

Edward Albee

Answer

Arthur Miller

Answer

Tennessee Williams

Answer

Eugene O'Neill

Question 47

In Lorraine Hansberry's play "A Raisin in the Sun", what is the central conflict?

Accepted Answer

A Black family's struggle against societal prejudice and economic hardship

Answer

A love triangle between two sisters and a wealthy suitor

Answer

A generational clash between parents and children

Question 48

Which theater movement emphasized delving into the subconscious and exploring psychological states?

Accepted Answer

Expressionism

Answer

Romanticism

Answer

Symbolism

Answer

Naturalism

Question 49

Tony Kushner's "Angels in America" is significant in which ways:

Accepted Answer

It addresses themes of AIDS, homosexuality, and political conservatism.

Answer

It is written entirely in iambic pentameter.

Answer

It is set during the American Civil War.

Question 50

Which playwright is widely recognized as a pioneer of American realism, renowned for accurately depicting the lives of everyday people?

Accepted Answer

Eugene O'Neill

Answer

Edward Albee

Answer

Tennessee Williams

Answer

Arthur Miller

Question 51

Expressionist theater, known for its portrayal of inner turmoil and psychological states, is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Distortion of reality and heightened emotions

Answer

Meticulous attention to naturalistic details

Answer

Exploration of historical events

Answer

Focus on everyday speech and ordinary characters

Question 52

Arthur Miller's seminal work, 'Death of a Salesman,' explores the themes of:

Accepted Answer

Guilt, responsibility, and the American Dream

Answer

The immigrant experience and cultural identity

Answer

Love, betrayal, and redemption

Answer

Political corruption and social injustice

Question 53

Absurdist theater, often characterized by a rejection of traditional narrative structures and logical reasoning, is defined by:

Accepted Answer

The exploration of the irrational, the absurd, and the meaninglessness of existence

Answer

The examination of historical events

Answer

The use of elaborate sets and costumes

Answer

The depiction of realistic everyday life

Question 54

Sam Shepard's experimental and avant-garde works are known for:

Accepted Answer

Challenging conventional theatrical forms and exploring liminal spaces

Answer

Their adherence to naturalistic dialogue and settings

Answer

Their depiction of ordinary American life

Answer

Their focus on historical events

Question 55

August Wilson's plays are renowned for their exploration of:

Accepted Answer

The African American experience and the complexities of race

Answer

The female experience and gender roles

Answer

The immigrant experience and cultural identity

Answer

The working-class experience

Question 56

Tennessee Williams's 'The Glass Menagerie' features a character named Laura Wingfield, who struggles with:

Accepted Answer

Delusion and escapism

Answer

Physical disability

Answer

Alcoholism and addiction

Answer

Mental illness

Question 57

The theater of the absurd, often employing fragmented narratives and nonlinear structures, is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

A rejection of logic, reason, and traditional storytelling techniques

Answer

A reliance on historical accuracy and period detail

Answer

An emphasis on psychological realism and character development

Answer

A focus on social realism and political commentary

Question 58

Which of the following is NOT a major movement in 20th-century American theater, characterized by its exploration of dark, mysterious, and supernatural themes?

Accepted Answer

Gothicism

Answer

Realism

Answer

Absurdism

Answer

Expressionism

Question 59

Edward Albee's plays are known for their exploration of:

Accepted Answer

Psychological isolation, alienation, and the complexities of human relationships

Answer

Naturalistic language and everyday life

Answer

Historical events and social issues

Answer

Fantasy and escapism