"Equus" Quiz
A psychiatrist attempts to understand the psychological motives behind a young man's violent blinding of horses, uncovering themes of passion, worship, and societal repression.
plays | 112 pages | Published in NaN
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Test your knowledge about the book "Equus". We have come up with 10 quiz questions for the book. Hit play and start testing your knowledge. Each correctly answered question gives one point.
10 questions available
Essay questions
These essay questions are meant to be used as a starting point for your essay or research paper.
- Discuss the role of religion and spirituality in 'Equus.' How does Alan's worship of Equus compare and contrast with traditional religious practices?
- Analyze the character of Martin Dysart. How does his relationship with Alan Strang force him to confront his own personal and professional dilemmas?
- Examine the use of horses as a symbol in the play. What do they represent for Alan, and how does this symbolism contribute to the overall themes of the play?
- How does Peter Shaffer use stage directions and theatrical conventions to enhance the psychological impact of the story?
- Explore the theme of passion versus normalcy in 'Equus.' What argument does the play make about the value of passion in human life?
- Discuss the significance of parental influence in Alan's life. How do his mother and father's beliefs and actions shape his psyche?
- In what ways does 'Equus' critique modern psychiatric practices? Consider Dysart's doubts and the outcome of Alan's treatment.
- How is sexuality portrayed in 'Equus,' and what is its relationship to Alan's psychological torment?
- Analyze the motif of blindness in the play. How is it both literal and metaphorical, and what does it reveal about the characters?
- Discuss the significance of the play's setting in a provincial English town. How does this environment contribute to the characters' struggles?
- What does Alan's crime reveal about the nature of worship and sacrilege in the play? How does it challenge societal notions of morality?
- Explore the dynamic between Dysart and Hesther. How does their relationship influence Dysart's decisions and internal conflict?
- How does Shaffer use language and dialogue to convey the inner turmoil of the characters, particularly Alan and Dysart?
- Consider the ending of 'Equus.' What is the significance of Dysart's final monologue, and how does it shape our understanding of the play's message?





