History Of The Middle English Quiz
Below is a set of trivia questions designed to test out one's understanding of the history of Middle English. Embark on a linguistic and literary exploration with our "History of Middle English Quiz." This quiz delves into the fascinating transition from Old English to Middle English, offering insights into the linguistic, cultural, and literary shifts during this transformative period.
Whether you're a literature aficionado, a language enthusiast, or simply intrigued by the roots of the English language, this quiz provides an engaging opportunity to navigate the complexities of Middle English history. Challenge yourself with questions that span literature, phonetics, Read moreand historical context, unraveling the evolution of English during this crucial era. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Middle English and uncover the linguistic heritage that has shaped our modern language.
The quiz is perfect for all history lovers and literature geeks. If you are one of them, feel free to give it a try and be on the lookout for other tests like it. All the best!
- 1.
In approximately what year does the Middle English period begin? (number only)
Explanation
The Middle English period is believed to have begun in approximately 1066. This is the year of the Norman Conquest, when William the Conqueror, a Norman king, invaded England and brought with him the Norman French language. This event marked a significant shift in the English language, as it began to evolve from Old English to Middle English. While 1100 is also a possible answer, 1066 is generally considered the more accurate starting point for the Middle English period.Rate this question:
- 2.
What events mark the end of the Middle English period (check all that apply).
- A.
Death of Chaucer
- B.
Death of King Edward
- C.
Advent of Printing
- D.
Magna Carta
- E.
Death of Malory
Correct Answer(s)
A. Death of Chaucer
C. Advent of Printing
E. Death of MaloryExplanation
The events that mark the end of the Middle English period are the Death of Chaucer, the Advent of Printing, and the Death of Malory. These events are significant because they represent important shifts in the literary and cultural landscape of England. Chaucer, often referred to as the father of English literature, played a crucial role in the development of Middle English literature, and his death marked the end of an era. The advent of printing revolutionized the dissemination of knowledge and had a profound impact on the English language. The death of Malory, the author of "Le Morte d'Arthur," one of the most famous Arthurian romances, also signaled the end of a literary tradition.Rate this question:
-
- 3.
There are no spelling conventions in Middle English. Words are spelled simply the way they sound.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In Middle English, there were no standardized spelling conventions. Words were spelled phonetically, based on how they sounded. This means that there was no set system for spelling words, and individuals would spell words in various ways based on their own interpretation of the sounds. Therefore, the statement "Words are spelled simply the way they sound" is true in the context of Middle English.Rate this question:
-
- 4.
The Battle of Hastings take place on this date.
- A.
January 4th 1066
- B.
September 25th 1066
- C.
October 14th 1066
- D.
September 28th 1066
Correct Answer
C. October 14th 1066Explanation
The Battle of Hastings took place on October 14th, 1066. This battle was a significant event in English history as it marked the Norman conquest of England. It was fought between the Norman army, led by William the Conqueror, and the English army, led by King Harold II. The battle resulted in a decisive victory for the Normans and the death of King Harold II. This event had far-reaching consequences for England, leading to the Norman influence on English culture, language, and governance.Rate this question:
-
- 5.
He is the last Anglo-Saxon king. (first name and last name).
Correct Answer
Harold Godwinson
Harold IIExplanation
Harold Godwinson, also known as Harold II, is the correct answer because he was the last Anglo-Saxon king. He became king of England in 1066 after the death of Edward the Confessor. His reign was short-lived as he was defeated and killed in the Battle of Hastings by William the Conqueror. Harold's death marked the end of the Anglo-Saxon rule in England and the beginning of Norman rule.Rate this question:
- 6.
Old English literature continues to flourish after the Norman Conquest.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement suggests that Old English literature continued to flourish after the Norman Conquest, but the correct answer is False. This is because the Norman Conquest in 1066 brought about significant changes in England, including the introduction of Norman French as the language of the ruling class. As a result, Old English literature began to decline, and Middle English literature started to emerge. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that Old English literature continued to flourish after the Norman Conquest.Rate this question:
-
- 7.
These leaders battle for the crown of England in 1066. Check all that apply.
- A.
William of Normandy
- B.
Edward of England
- C.
Leopold of France
- D.
Harald Hardrada of Norway
Correct Answer(s)
A. William of Normandy
D. Harald Hardrada of NorwayExplanation
William of Normandy and Harald Hardrada of Norway were both leaders who battled for the crown of England in 1066. Edward of England and Leopold of France are not relevant to this historical event and did not participate in the battle for the crown.Rate this question:
-
- 8.
The period of great individual writers takes place between these years
- A.
1100-1250
- B.
1250-1350
- C.
1350-1400
- D.
1400-1500
Correct Answer
C. 1350-1400Explanation
During the period of 1350-1400, there was a significant emergence of great individual writers. This time frame is often referred to as the Late Middle Ages or the Medieval period. It was a time of cultural and literary flourishing, with renowned writers such as Geoffrey Chaucer and Giovanni Boccaccio making significant contributions to literature. Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales" and Boccaccio's "Decameron" are considered masterpieces of this era. Therefore, the correct answer is 1350-1400.Rate this question:
-
- 9.
In general, Middle English represents the leveling of inflections to this vowel.
- A.
A
- B.
E
- C.
I
- D.
O
Correct Answer
B. EExplanation
Middle English represents the leveling of inflections to the vowel "e". This means that in Middle English, the various inflections that were originally represented by different vowels (such as a, i, or o) were simplified and standardized to the vowel "e". This leveling process helped to simplify the language and make it more consistent in terms of its vowel sounds.Rate this question:
-
- 10.
In Middle English, two consecutive vowels show what?
- A.
That the vowel is short
- B.
That the vowel is long
- C.
That the vowel is corrupt
Correct Answer
B. That the vowel is longExplanation
In Middle English, two consecutive vowels indicate that the vowel is long. This means that the vowel sound is held for a longer duration compared to a short vowel sound. This is a common linguistic feature in many languages, including Middle English, to differentiate between short and long vowel sounds.Rate this question:
-
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
-
Current Version
-
Mar 24, 2025Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Oct 22, 2012Quiz Created by
Mcbrinep1
Back to top