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49 pages 1 hour read

Seymour Reit

Behind Rebel Lines: The Incredible Story of Emma Edmonds, Civil War Spy

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1988

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Essay Topics

1.

Who is James Vesey? How does he influence Emma’s decision to become a spy?

2.

Comment on women’s traditional roles during the Civil War era. What functions would they perform for the war effort?

3.

On several occasions, luck intervenes on Emma’s behalf. Pick two examples and discuss them.

4.

What role does Mrs. Butler play in Emma’s life?

5.

In what ways do the types of disguises Emma chooses relate to the book’s theme of how appearance determines treatment?

6.

Give examples of the trophies Emma collects during her military career. What do they symbolize?

7.

Over the course of the war, Emma takes on many different jobs in her desire to make a difference. Choose three and discuss them.

8.

Describe Emma’s character. How does she differ from other women of her time?

9.

Emma’s story involves many different hospitals. Describe some of her jobs there and explain why she chooses them.

10.

Discuss the impact that Emma’s father has on her later life choices.

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