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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. In Reta's letter to Ford-Halpern, what is "an endless series of obstacles, an alignment of locked doors"?

2. What does Reta think most people would assume about the inscription on Mary Leland's headstone?

3. What question about Norah does Lois Winters ask every night at dinner?

4. Who lost her own son to a heroin overdose?

5. According to Francis, why does everyone dismiss Norah's gloves at the hostel?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Reta feel that Arthur's suggestion to focus on Roman instead of Alicia is an egregious one?

2. When Tom calls to inform Reta that Norah is in the hospital, how does the point of view change in the novel?

3. How does Arthur feel about Roman, the other main character in Reta's novel?

4. At the hospital, what does Natalie reveal about the injuries to Norah's hands?

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

6. According to Reta, what is the "worry word" of life and why is it significant?

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

8. When Reta and Tom consult a psychiatrist about Norah, what does he tell them and how do they respond?

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

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

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

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.

Essay Topic 3

How does Shields portray heroines in the novel? Respond to the following:

1. What characters can be regarded as tragic heroines?

2. Discuss Reta's ideas about heroines and heroism.

3. How are the heroines in the novel in opposition to society?

(see the answer keys)

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