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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. Who insists that Norah is reacting to her state of powerlessness in society during Norah's visit with her?

2. What anomaly does Lois tell Arthur she sees on the oak tree outside her window?

3. What is Helt's central thesis in her review of a female author?

4. What does Tracy Halliday want a huge jar of marbles to represent for Norah?

5. What is the exception Reta is going to make regarding the letter to the short story writer?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is Reta's central point in her letter to Helt?

2. What does Reta and Tom's walk in Orangetown cemetery represent?

3. What rationale does Reta offer about the importance of novels despite moral injustice in the world?

4. Why don't the Winters' want to discuss the fact that Norah probably gave her Christmas package away?

5. In her letter to Russell Sandor, Reta states that she fears nothing. Why does she feel this way and how does she prove it in her letter?

6. Why does an older friend of Reta's advise her to read obituaries as a young writer?

7. What issue does Reta take with Emily Helt's book review in the Chicago Tribune?

8. Describe Reta and Lois's relationship.

9. At the end of the novel, what do we learn about the reason for Norah's disappearance and subsequent homelessness?

10. Why does Arthur Springer call one day after Christmas and what is Reta's response?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

As a novel, "Unless" functions as a mystery. As such, there are clues provided to lead the reader in many directions. What are some true and false leads surrounding Norah's disappearance? How does Shields utilize flashbacks and dialogue to create suspension in the novel?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the role of writing in the novel, responding to the following questions:

1. What is the function of Reta's writing in portraying her ideas about the world?

2. Do Reta's novels and letters serve the same purpose? Why or why not?

3. How does Danielle's writing compare with Reta's in terms of its significance?

Essay Topic 3

What is the role of language in "Unless"? Identify and discuss the following relationships and its significance for the characters:

1. Language and identity.

2. Language and truth.

3. Language and power.

(see the answer keys)

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