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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What kind of meeting is at the governor’s house on Tuesdays?

2. What kind of gloves would Grace like to have?

3. Where was McDermott hanged?

4. Why doesn’t Mr. George return to college after Christmas?

5. Who does Grace tell Dr. Jordan Mary Whitney is?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the sentencing for Grace and McDermott?

2. What does the visitor to Grace’s cell give her and what does Grace do about it?

3. Where does Jordan visit Grace in Chapter 4 and what does he do with her?

4. What are the three letters that are shown at the beginning of Chapter 4?

5. Who narrates Chapter 1 and what does she say about her present circumstances as to where she is, how old she is and what year it is?

6. Who comes to Grace’s cell, why and how does he reassure her?

7. Describe the scene where Grace dreams the peddler has something to give her?

8. What happens to Grace’s mother and how does her father take care of them?

9. How does Dr. Jordan help Mrs. Humphreys’ situation?

10. What is the poem in Chapter 2 about?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Alias Grace belongs to the historical novel genre. Discuss the following:

Define the literary term "genre" and name three other genres in addition to the historical novel genre. What are the advantages and disadvantages of assigning a genre to a novel? What do you think is the difference between a historical novel and a novel or mystery?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss one of the following:

Trace and analyze the theme of sexuality in Alias Grace. Consider the following questions as you write: Examine which characters are most concerned with sexuality and about what their concern is centered. How does sexuality play such a major role in Alias Grace? How is sexuality at least partly to blame for Grace ending up in prison?

Trace and analyze the theme of feminism in Alias Grace. What does the novel have to say about the roles of women in the 1800’s? Is the view of women’s treatment and power in that era positive or negative? Why? What does feminism have to do with Grace’s life?

Essay Topic 3

Many readers of fiction place themselves in the position of one character, wondering if they would do the same thing as that character. Discuss the following:

Do you think one of the values of literature is to serve as a reflection of oneself? Why or why not? Socrates said "Know thyself." How can reading a book such as Alias Grace help a reader to know him/herself? Do you find yourself reflecting on your own character and abilities when reading Alias Grace? Why or why not. Use examples from Alias Grace and your own life to support your answer.

(see the answer keys)

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