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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. In "Wooden Box," what does Tig no longer care for in his old age?

2. In "Widows," which phrase does Nell deem as Geriatric flirting?

3. In "A Dusty Lunch," what happens to Brig in his old age?

4. In "Widows," what activity occupies Nell’s time?

5. In "Freeforall," which play is banned?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Nell not want Stevie to do about her belief that Tig is not really gone and why?

2. What does Marty’s letter to Brig say?

3. What is the purpose of the ladies’ gathering and what do they worry about?

4. What does Nell speak about in her short/real letter to Stevie?

5. What is going on with Leonie’s husband?

6. How do humans assume the soul’s afterlife works and what really happens?

7. What did Brig do in his youth?

8. What discussion do Nell and Tig have in the Sauna – why does this cause Nell to be upset?

9. Explain the significance of marmalade making?

10. What happened to their friend with breast cancer?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay about why understanding the setting of “Two Scorched Men” is crucial for understanding the story’s meaning. How do you believe the story is shaped by the context of World War II?

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay arguing whether technology would or would not have made a difference in Tig and Nell’s near-death experiences from “First Aid.” Be sure to use specific instances of imagery to back up your points.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay on how Atwood’s use of levity and humor helps her discuss serious issues in an approachable way. What elements of humor does she use to soften the blow of her more serious underlying themes? Draw examples from one to two of Atwood's short stories.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 863 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample