Is the screen broken on this laptop?

Hmm from looking at the pictures it does seem the LCD is ok. That issue seems to be related to either the video card, the ribbon connector connecting the LCD to motherboard, or maybe the inverter. I understand buying the computer for cheap as a spare and misc but if you are only after a screen, there are MANY screens you can buy for pretty cheap. I would go that route if you are only looking for a screen. Unless you are going to try to make a bid and get it cheap, on ebay I see MANY LCD's for around $90-$150. To be SAFE (UNLESS you want a parts computer) I would just get the LCD alone and not the E1705. If you want a good parts computer than go for it.