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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. Within how many generations did nearly everyone adopt color?

2. What does the "pull" in Flatland represent in Spaceland?

3. What does Hoffman say about the fourth dimension?

4. What does the editor say is the second objection to the novel?

5. What effect did the end of this method have on the classes?

Short Essay Questions

1. What caused women to turn against the color bill?

2. What happens to aristocratic children who fail exams, and as a result, what does the State feel should happen?

3. What example does A. Square use to show his reasoning behind the need for regularity of shape?

4. Explain why square and triangular homes are not allowed. In addition, explain why government buildings are allowed to be triangular.

5. Explain how sight recognition is used in upper classes, and why such a method cannot be used for the lower class.

6. Explain why Hoffman believes Abbott was afraid the writing of the book may tarnish his other writings.

7. What does Hoffman mean when he calls the novel timeless in the Introduction?

8. Based on the end of the Preface, what is the author attempting to say about the ruling class of his time?

9. What occurs in society as a result of the Color Revolt?

10. What is the law of nature that helps protect the upper class? Which law of nature do Circles use to help stifle agitation?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Chapter 7, A. Square explains what happens to individuals who are shaped irregularly. Discuss the consequences of irregularity in Flatland. Does our society have similar punishments for those who deviate from the norm? Explain your answer by discussing a particular group of individuals who deviate from the norm, and how they are treated by society. Do you believe such treatment is just, or wrong? Why?

Essay Topic 2

Throughout the novel, the idea of individuals using drastic measures to overcome their position in life is presented. Give at least two examples of this in the novel, and discuss in depth the process these individuals endure. Do you think such drastic measures are used in today's society? Do you believe such measures are justified?

Essay Topic 3

In Chapter 4, Abbott discusses the role of women in Flatland. He clearly uses the women in the novel to symbolize how women are treated in Victorian society. Discuss how Abbott portrays women in the novel, and compare it to both women in historic times, as well as in modern times. Has the treatment of women improved? If so, is the change universal? If not, what types of viewpoints have not changed? Do you feel such treatment is valid, or unjust? Why?

(see the answer keys)

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