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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. Why does the author call the land he writes about Flatland?

2. What shape are soldiers?

3. What do inhabitants of Flatland see?

4. What shape are professional men?

5. What were Edwin Abbott's primary interests?

Short Essay Questions

1. Summarize A. Square's explanation of Flatland.

2. Explain the shape of workmen and soldiers, women, the middle class, the professionals, and noblemen, or priests.

3. What occurred when individuals began to question where light came from?

4. Explain how sight recognition is used in upper classes, and why such a method cannot be used for the lower class.

5. What are some of the characteristics of women in Chapter 5?

6. What is the author's primary defense against the idea that those in Flatland should recognize thickness, and infer a dimension?

7. What example does A. Square use to show his reasoning behind the need for regularity of shape?

8. Explain the basic process of evolution, as described in Chapter 3.

9. What appears to be the reasoning behind the need for the preface of this novel?

10. How does A. Square explain the lack of ability to discern changes in retraction or projection in Chapter 1?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Throughout the novel, Circles use their power to control the lower classes. Discuss at least three examples of this abuse of power. What do you think Abbott was attempting to say about the aristocratic powers of his own time?

Essay Topic 2

In Flatland, there are several Laws of Nature discussed that serve to keep the Circles in power. Choose one of these laws, and explain it in depth. Does such a law of nature truly exist in the world? What do you believe Abbott was trying to say by introducing this law?

Essay Topic 3

Circles in Flatland strive to achieve a higher shape, and thereby a higher position in society. Explain three ways Circles attempt to improve their shape. What do these changes symbolize in the real world? Do you believe that attaining a higher status in life should be a primary goal? If so, why? If not, what should be a primary goal?

(see the answer keys)

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