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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 becomes a stumbling block for Jess?

2. What medication is Jess given after her breast reduction surgery?

3. Who inadvertently refers to Jess as "she" at a union meeting?

4. Where is Jess harassed by some jocks who destroy her cycle?

5. What does Jess buy Ruth for Christmas?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Jess' life after she arrives in New York City and realizes she cannot stay in the apartment with no lock on the door.

2. What are the positive and negative points about passing as a man according to Jess?

3. Explain the symbolism of Jess' jaw being wired shut after the attack in the subway.

4. Describe the conditions of factories in the 1970s, which is ten years after Jess has been working in them.

5. Ruth paints Jess' bedroom that serves as a metaphor for who they are. Describe what it is and why it is a metaphor.

6. Describe how living in New York City elevates Jess' life in many ways.

7. What happens to Jess when she decides to stop taking the male hormones?

8. Describe the encounter where Jess sees Butch Al in the asylum.

9. What public role does Jess take on in Chapter 26?

10. What is the difference between Buffalo and New York?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the significance of the novel's title STONE BUTCH BLUES. Why did Feinberg choose this title? Is there an understood message in the title? Is there another title you can suggest that might be more appropriate?

Essay Topic 2

Create a character study of Theresa. What are her physical characteristics? What are her motivations? What are her fears? What are her dreams? What else can you say about Theresa?

Essay Topic 3

STONE BUTCH BLUES is a classic story of betrayal and survival. What does that classification entail? Why does this novel fit into this category? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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