In this exam, you must indicate mastery of all relevant material since the midterm. In addition, you must show a cumulative understanding of sex, gender, sexuality, and their social interconnections. You should showcase your ability to integrate abstract materials in an analytic way.

Make a solid argument and back it up with evidence. Cite (properly) when possible. Good luck and have fun.

Choose one to answer:

1. In the novel, The Handmaid’s Tale, Atwood paints a futuristic vision of a new gender regime. In this regime, the major social institutions have all been reorganized. Pick two of these social institutions to examine. Compare and contrast these structures in our society as well as in Gilead. Who is better off and why?

2. You are invited to speak at an historical conference in which the newly discovered recordings by Offred are being analyzed. You argue that Gilead resulted from the contradictory implications of various 20th and 21st Century feminisms. You show that, when used by misguided and/or corrupt leaders, feminism can be a tool for oppression of women. However, when used properly, feminism could be used for women's liberation. Tell the conference attendees how.

Typed exam is due by 12 pm Tuesday, May 9. Can be turned in to Myers in classroom between 11:30-12, or in her mailbox (8th Zu) beforehand. E-mail submissions accepted only with pre-approval.