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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Where did the trial for John Hossack’s murder take place?
(a) St. Paul, Minnesota
(b) Chicago, Illinois
(c) Indianola, Iowa
(d) Albany, New York

2. What sentence was the murder suspect given for the murder of John Hossack?
(a) Death by electric chair
(b) Death by hanging
(c) Life in prison
(d) 25 years in prison

3. In what year was John Hossack murdered?
(a) 1798
(b) 1900
(c) 1885
(d) 1916

4. When was Trifles first performed?
(a) March 12, 1885
(b) August 8, 1916
(c) July 15, 1901
(d) September 25, 1919

5. For how many months did Susan Glaspell cover the John Hossack murder case?
(a) 30
(b) 16
(c) 20
(d) 4

Short Answer Questions

1. When did Susan Glaspell marry George Cram Cook?

2. As a founding member of a famous theatrical collaboration, Susan Glaspell arranged for the first ever reading of a play by what famed playwright?

3. What character did Susan Glaspell portray in the original production of Trifles?

4. Who played the role of George Henderson in the original production of Trifles?

5. Who was accused of the murder of John Hossack?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Mrs. Wright reply when Mr. Hale tells her that he wants to see Mr. Wright?

2. What does Mr. Hale describe when he knocks at the Wrights' door the previous day?

3. When was Susan Glaspell inspired to write Trifles? Who encouraged her to write it and why?

4. What is revealed about the characters through their dialogue and language?

5. What does Mrs. Wright do when Mr. Hale attempts to make small talk?

6. When and where was Trifles first performed?

7. How does Trifles reflect “local color” in its style and narrative?

8. Who goes for help after discovering Mr. Wright's body? What does Mr. Hale discuss with Mrs. Wright?

9. What information does Mr. Hale reveal about Mr. Wright’s character through his interview with the Sheriff and County Attorney?

10. What does Mr. Hale respond when questioned about how Mrs. Wright appears when he arrives the previous day?

(see the answer keys)

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