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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. According to the professor, why was Gilead able to succeed?

2. What month is it when Offred goes to Jezebel’s?

3. According to Chapter 15, in which city was Offred most likely located?

4. How often do the girls get a break, according to Chapter 12?

5. What did the old Ofglen see that made her kill herself?

Short Essay Questions

1. What form do Offred's prayers take in Chapter 11?

2. In Chapter 10, what becomes different about Offred’s relationship to Luke, after the changes?

3. Why does Offred think about her age and height in Chapter 9?

4. How does the professor describe Nick’s role?

5. Why does the story about the cat in Chapter 11 matter?

6. What is the most likely explanation for the Wife’s presence in the Salvaging?

7. Why does Offred pray in Chapter 11?

8. How does Offred feel about her participation in the Salvaging?

9. What might Offred expect after being taken?

10. What is the condition that Nick sets forth for Offred in Chapter 13?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Offred seems to be trapped throughout the book, though other characters have different paths. What choices were available to women in Gilead? How do these compare to the choices that men had in determining their fates?

Essay Topic 2

Gilead is a strict hierarchical society. Describe the hierarchy of Gilead, and give descriptions of various characters we encounter in “The Handmaid’s Tale” and how they fit into the hierarchy. Why is this hierarchy necessary?

Essay Topic 3

Offred finds comfort, and eventually salvation, through her relationship with Nick. How is Nick characterized? Why is he important? Compare/contrast him with the character of Luke.

(see the answer keys)

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