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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 Introduction, during what years did Susan Glaspell work as a reporter for the Des Moines News?

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

3. When was Trifles first performed?

4. Where was the theatrical collaboration that Susan Glaspell and George Cram Cook formed originated?

5. Where did the trial for John Hossack’s murder take place?

Short Essay Questions

1. When and where was Trifles first performed?

2. How does Trifles differ from episodic dramas or climactic plays?

3. Who does Mr. Hale call inside after Mrs. Wright tells him Mr. Wright is dead? What did they find?

4. How does Henry Peters begin the investigation after arriving at the Wright home? What does Mr. Henderson interrupt to ask?

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

6. What indicates the time period of the narrative?

7. What themes are central in the play? Which characters are the focus of the play?

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

9. How does Mrs. Wright inform Mr. Hale of her husband's location and means of death?

10. What theatrical group did Susan Glaspell help found? Where was it originated?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Define and identify the imagery used in Trifles. How does the use of simile give the reader a better understanding of Mr. and Mrs. Wright? What metaphors are presented in the play? How do they reflect the play’s themes?

Essay Topic 2

Describe the character of Lewis Hale and discuss his relationship with the other characters. How well does Mr. Hale know the Wrights'? What regard does he have for them?

Essay Topic 3

Describe and discuss the character of Mrs. Peters and her relationship to the other characters. What are some of Mrs. Peters’ characteristics? What is Mrs. Peters' objective in the story? What actions does the author commit to forward those objectives?

(see the answer keys)

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