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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 is Bessy annoyed with Margaret upon seeing her after they first met?

2. Who confesses his love to Margaret after they fetch pears from the garden?

3. What does Mr. Thornton challenge the crowd to do to him?

4. Where is Frederick Hale living when the novel opens?

5. Who are the first guests to arrive at the Thorntons' big dinner party?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Bessy claim that Margaret never has suffered and is likely never to do so in the future?

2. What happens to Mrs. Hale and Dixon once they arrive in Milton?

3. What about Mr. Thornton's life story does Margaret like?

4. What makes Margaret go out in search of household help in Milton when she first arrives?

5. What does Nicholas have to say about the people in Milton and religion?

6. What advice does Margaret give to Mr. Thornton about how to handle the growing crowd of striking workers outside his door?

7. Why does Margaret feel guilty after Mr. Thornton leaves her home after he confesses his love to her?

8. Why are the Thorntons aghast at Margaret and Mr. Hale's acceptance to their dinner party?

9. What does Mrs. Thornton warn her son about Margaret?

10. How does Margaret prove to Bessy that she indeed knows suffering?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In "North and South," many of the characters are shockingly stubborn in the face of information that should otherwise lead them to think or act differently. Choose 3 different characters from the novel and discuss one instance where each character is stubborn and the reasons behind that stubbornness.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the symbolism of the character of Bessy and what happens to her in the novel.

Essay Topic 3

Compare and contrast the characters of Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Thornton, both mothers of two main characters. Make sure to discuss how their children (Margaret and Mr. Thornton) reflect parts of their character.

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