Curated set · answers marked
Which of the following best describes the role of George and Martha's "son" in the play?
Rationale
George and Martha's son is a fictional creation that serves as a psychological coping mechanism for both characters. In a pivotal moment of the play, George "kills" the son by claiming he has died, which shatters the illusion and compels them to face their harsh reality.
Which of the following best describes the role of George and Martha's imaginary son in the play?
Rationale
George and Martha's "son" is a made-up child they’ve created together. He functions as both a psychological support and a tool in their destructive games. By the play's conclusion, George "kills" this illusion by declaring the son has died, compelling both characters — along with Nick and Honey — to face the truth.
Which of the following best describes the significance of the title Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
Rationale
The title plays on the children's song "Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?" by replacing the wolf's name with Virginia Woolf's. Albee uses this theme to delve into the characters' reliance on illusions and self-deception—living without these illusions (i.e., "Virginia Woolf") means confronting a stark and frightening reality.