Essay Questions

Edwin Abbott highlights that Victorian society is divided into discrete classes and also presents the role of the law. Show how each of these is argued based on Flatland.

In the satirical novella, Abbott highlights how society is divided into groups or classes with every individual focused on the transition from one social class to another. Abbott argues that whilst this transition is somewhat open to all individuals, only those in the top classes determine who transitions and who does not transition. Also, the writer highlights how laws are meant to ensure that everyone remains in their place and that growth is restricted.

Highlight the fate of the individuals that learn of the world in Spaceland as presented in Abbott’s Flatland.

The monarch’s rule that is somewhat a form of authoritarianism is highlighted through his particular interest in killing. As such, the Squares that learn of the world in Spaceland often end up either being killed or imprisoned. For instance, Square B is imprisoned, whereas another Square is also restrained for trusting in the likelihood of three dimensions.