1.
The Renaissance was characterized by all of the following except:
Correct Answer
D. Use of superstition to explain reality
Explanation
During the Renaissance, there was a significant shift towards rationality and the pursuit of knowledge based on observation and reason. This period was marked by a revival of art and culture, as well as the rediscovery and appreciation of ancient Greek and Roman writings. Objectivity and individualism were also emphasized during this time, encouraging individuals to think for themselves and form their own opinions. However, the use of superstition to explain reality was not a characteristic of the Renaissance, as it contradicted the emphasis on reason and observation.
2.
Iago leads Othello to question Desdemona's faithfulness by doing all of the following except:
Correct Answer
D. Having Othello overhear a conversation with his wife Emilia about Desdemona's unfaithfulness
Explanation
Iago leads Othello to question Desdemona's faithfulness by putting seeds of doubt in Othello's mind regarding her relationship with Cassio, warning Othello to be careful not to be jealous, and reminding Othello that Desdemona lied to her own father. However, he does not have Othello overhear a conversation with his wife Emilia about Desdemona's unfaithfulness.
3.
"Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana" is an example of
Correct Answer
A. A pun
Explanation
The phrase "Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana" is an example of a pun. A pun is a form of wordplay that exploits multiple meanings of a word or words that sound similar but have different meanings. In this case, the pun is created by the play on words between "time flies" and "fruit flies," as well as the comparison between the action of flying and the objects being flown.
4.
Which of the following is not an example of dramatic irony that Shakespeare uses in Othello?
Correct Answer
D. The reader knows that Desdemona and Othello truly love each other while Cassio does not.
Explanation
In Othello, the reader is aware that Desdemona and Othello truly love each other, but Cassio does not have this knowledge. This is not an example of dramatic irony because it does not involve a situation where the audience knows something that the characters do not. The other options all involve situations where the reader has knowledge that certain characters in the play do not possess, creating dramatic irony.
5.
What is a common tragic flaw in a hero of a tragic drama?
Correct Answer
A. Excessive pride
Explanation
A common tragic flaw in a hero of a tragic drama is excessive pride. This flaw often leads the hero to have an inflated sense of self-importance and a disregard for the consequences of their actions. It blinds them to their own weaknesses and can ultimately lead to their downfall. This flaw is often portrayed as hubris, where the hero believes they are invincible and above the rules that govern others. Their pride prevents them from seeking help or advice, making them vulnerable to their own downfall.
6.
Which character gives Iago the handkerchief to use in his scheme against Othello?
Correct Answer
A. Emilia, his wife
Explanation
Emilia, Iago's wife, gives him the handkerchief to use in his scheme against Othello. This is significant because Emilia unknowingly plays a crucial role in Iago's plan to manipulate Othello's emotions and convince him of Desdemona's infidelity. Emilia's actions demonstrate her loyalty to her husband and her willingness to assist him, even though she is unaware of his true intentions.
7.
What most upsets Cassio after his fight with Montano?
Correct Answer
A. He is upset about the loss of his reputation.
Explanation
After his fight with Montano, Cassio is most upset about the loss of his reputation. This can be inferred from the fact that Cassio is known for being a skilled and honorable soldier, and the fight tarnishes his image and standing in the eyes of others. Losing his reputation not only affects his personal pride but also has potential consequences for his career and relationships. It highlights the importance Cassio places on his reputation and how deeply he is affected by its loss.
8.
Othello is a tragedy about what human weakness?
Correct Answer
A. Jealousy
Explanation
Othello is a tragedy about jealousy because the play revolves around the main character, Othello, who is driven to madness and ultimately kills his wife, Desdemona, due to his overwhelming jealousy. Throughout the play, Othello's jealousy is fueled by the manipulations of the villainous character, Iago, who plants seeds of doubt in Othello's mind regarding Desdemona's fidelity. This weakness of jealousy ultimately leads to the tragic downfall of Othello and the other characters involved.
9.
Who do Iago and Othello pledge to kill together?
Correct Answer
A. Cassio
Explanation
Iago and Othello pledge to kill Cassio together.
10.
In Othello, who said: "Then you must speak of one that loved not wisely but too well" (Original). "Describe me as one who loved too much, but who was not wise about it" (Modern version)
Correct Answer
A. Othello
Explanation
Othello is the correct answer because he is the one who made the statement. The quote reflects Othello's realization that his love for Desdemona was excessive and not based on wisdom or rationality. The modern version of the quote emphasizes the same idea, portraying Othello as someone who loved intensely but lacked wisdom in his actions.
11.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of the greatest authors of his age, came from which country?
Correct Answer
A. Germany
Explanation
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, known as one of the greatest authors of his time, was born in Germany. He was a prominent figure in German literature and is best known for his works such as "Faust" and "The Sorrows of Young Werther." Goethe's contributions to German literature and his influence on the Romantic movement make Germany the correct answer.
12.
The Enlightenment is characterized by what cultural shift?
Correct Answer
A. A move away from revelation to reason as the primary authority in areas of knowledge
Explanation
During the Enlightenment, there was a significant cultural shift towards valuing reason as the primary authority in areas of knowledge. This meant that people began to rely less on religious revelation and instead placed more emphasis on rationality and empirical evidence. This shift was fueled by the scientific revolution and the belief in the power of human reason to understand and improve the world. It led to advancements in various fields such as philosophy, science, and politics, and laid the foundation for modern secular thought and the development of democratic societies.
13.
A Faustian bargain can be described as:
Correct Answer
A. Sacrificing ones moral integrity for temporary personal gain, such as power or success
Explanation
A Faustian bargain refers to sacrificing one's moral integrity for temporary personal gain, such as power or success. This concept originates from the character of Faust in German folklore and literature, particularly Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's play "Faust." In the story, Faust makes a pact with the devil, selling his soul in exchange for unlimited knowledge and worldly pleasures. This idea has since become a metaphor for making immoral compromises or engaging in unethical behavior to achieve personal goals.
14.
In his study, what does Faust turn to in order to cope with his dissatisfaction with life before meeting Mephistopheles?
Correct Answer
A. Magic and suicide
Explanation
Faust turns to magic and suicide in order to cope with his dissatisfaction with life before meeting Mephistopheles. This suggests that he is seeking some form of escape or solution to his unhappiness. Magic represents a desire for power and control over his circumstances, while suicide reflects his desperation and desire to end his suffering. These extreme measures indicate the depth of Faust's despair and his willingness to explore dangerous paths in search of fulfillment.
15.
In Goethe's version of Faust the main character makes a wager with the devil in order to gain _______.
Correct Answer
A. The "Moment," transcendence, deep personal satisfaction
Explanation
In Goethe's version of Faust, the main character makes a wager with the devil in order to gain the "Moment," transcendence, and deep personal satisfaction. This suggests that Faust is seeking a fleeting moment of intense experience and fulfillment, as well as a sense of spiritual transcendence and profound personal satisfaction. The other options, such as power, wealth, and knowledge, do not capture the same emphasis on the ephemeral and deeply personal nature of Faust's desires.