1.
The haiku, a three-line poem that utilizes images from nature, originated in which country?
Correct Answer
A. Japan
Explanation
The haiku is a traditional form of poetry that originated in Japan. It consists of three lines and often focuses on capturing a single moment or image from nature. The concise structure and use of vivid imagery are key elements of haiku, making it a unique and celebrated art form in Japanese culture.
2.
Which of the following authors wrote "The Scarlet Letter"?
Correct Answer
A. Nathaniel Hawthorne
Explanation
Nathaniel Hawthorne is the correct answer because he is the author who wrote "The Scarlet Letter." The novel, published in 1850, tells the story of Hester Prynne, who is forced to wear a scarlet letter "A" on her clothing as punishment for committing adultery. Hawthorne's exploration of themes such as guilt, sin, and redemption in Puritan society has made "The Scarlet Letter" a classic piece of American literature.
3.
"Ruff-ruff", "meow", and "oink-oink" are all examples of which stylistic device?
Correct Answer
D. Onomotopoeia
Explanation
The correct answer is onomatopoeia because it refers to words that imitate or suggest the sound of the object or action being described. "Ruff-ruff" imitates the sound of a dog barking, "meow" imitates the sound of a cat, and "oink-oink" imitates the sound of a pig. Onomatopoeia is a stylistic device that adds vividness and sensory appeal to writing or speech by creating sound effects.
4.
What does the phrase "Carpe Diem" mean?
Correct Answer
D. Seize The Day
Explanation
"Carpe Diem" is a Latin phrase that translates to "Seize the Day." This phrase encourages individuals to make the most of the present moment and take advantage of opportunities that come their way. It emphasizes the importance of living in the present and not dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. By seizing the day, one can fully embrace life's experiences and make the most of every opportunity that arises.
5.
"Crime and Punishment", "Anna Karenina" and "Dr. Zhivago" all belong to which kind of literature?
Correct Answer
D. Russian
Explanation
The correct answer is Russian because "Crime and Punishment," "Anna Karenina," and "Dr. Zhivago" are all famous novels written by Russian authors. These works are considered classics of Russian literature and are widely recognized for their cultural and historical significance.
6.
"And that has made all the difference" is the final line in which Robert Frost poem?
Correct Answer
A. The Road Not Taken
Explanation
The line "And that has made all the difference" is the final line in the poem "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost. The poem explores the theme of choices and the impact they have on one's life. The speaker reflects on a decision to take the less traveled path, which has made a significant difference in their life. The line signifies the importance of individual choices and their ability to shape one's future.
7.
Gregor Samsa is the main character in which of the following short stories by Franz Kafka?
Correct Answer
C. The MetamorpHosis
Explanation
Gregor Samsa is the main character in "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka. In this story, Gregor wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a giant insect. The story explores themes of alienation, isolation, and the absurdity of human existence. Gregor's transformation leads to his physical and emotional deterioration, as he becomes a burden to his family and is ultimately rejected by society. The story serves as a critique of societal norms and the dehumanizing effects of modern life.
8.
In Edgar Allan Poe's poem "Annabelle Lee", where is the subject's kingdom located?
Correct Answer
A. By The Sea
Explanation
In Edgar Allan Poe's poem "Annabelle Lee," the subject's kingdom is located "By The Sea." This is evident in the lines of the poem where the narrator describes their love and the setting of their kingdom, emphasizing the proximity to the sea. The sea is portrayed as a significant element in their love story, symbolizing both beauty and tragedy. The location of the kingdom by the sea adds to the overall atmosphere and theme of the poem.
9.
Which George Orwell novel begins with the words "It was a bright cold day in April"?
Correct Answer
A. 1984
Explanation
The correct answer is 1984. This novel by George Orwell starts with the line "It was a bright cold day in April." The opening sentence sets the tone for the dystopian world depicted in the book, where the government exercises total control over its citizens and manipulates their thoughts and actions. The story follows the protagonist, Winston Smith, as he rebels against the oppressive regime in a society dominated by surveillance, propaganda, and the erasure of individuality.
10.
In "The Wasteland", which month does T.S. Eliot call "the cruellest"?
Correct Answer
B. April
Explanation
In T.S. Eliot's poem "The Wasteland," the month of April is referred to as "the cruellest." This is because April is traditionally associated with the arrival of spring, a time of renewal and rebirth. However, in the poem, Eliot portrays April as a month of despair and disillusionment, highlighting the stark contrast between the natural world's rejuvenation and the spiritual and emotional barrenness of the modern world. The use of irony in calling April "the cruellest" emphasizes the poem's themes of disillusionment and the decay of society.
11.
Which of the following Spanish-speaking writers was executed under Generalissimo Franco's regime?
Correct Answer
B. Lorca
Explanation
Lorca is the correct answer because he was a Spanish-speaking writer who was executed under Generalissimo Franco's regime. Federico GarcÃa Lorca, a renowned Spanish poet and playwright, was arrested and executed by Franco's Nationalist forces during the Spanish Civil War. His works were considered controversial and his execution was seen as a political act against his left-wing views.
12.
Which of Ian Fleming's 007 novels was first sold in the U.S. as "Too Hot To Handle"?
Correct Answer
C. Moonraker
Explanation
Moonraker is the correct answer because it was the first Ian Fleming's 007 novel to be sold in the U.S. as "Too Hot To Handle". Dr. No, Casino Royale, and You Only Live Twice were not sold under that title in the U.S.
13.
Which of the following literary genres describes a "coming-of-age" story?
Correct Answer
D. Bildungsroman
Explanation
A "coming-of-age" story refers to a genre known as Bildungsroman. This genre focuses on the psychological and moral growth of the protagonist as they transition from childhood to adulthood. It typically explores themes of self-discovery, identity formation, and the challenges and lessons learned during this transformative period of a person's life. Juvenilia refers to works created by an author during their youth, Epistolary Novel refers to a story told through a series of letters, and Roman A Clef refers to a novel in which real people or events are fictionalized.
14.
What movie was based on Philip K Dick's short story "We Can Remember it for You Wholesale"?
Correct Answer
B. Total Recall
Explanation
Total Recall is the correct answer because it is a science fiction film that was based on Philip K. Dick's short story "We Can Remember it for You Wholesale". The film follows the story of a man who undergoes a memory implant procedure but later discovers that his memories may not be real. The film explores themes of identity, memory, and reality, which are common in Philip K. Dick's works.
15.
In which William Faulkner novel is "My mother is a fish" an entire chapter?
Correct Answer
A. As I Lay Dying
Explanation
In William Faulkner's novel "As I Lay Dying," the chapter titled "My mother is a fish" is significant because it is narrated by Vardaman Bundren, one of the main characters. This chapter explores Vardaman's grief and confusion following the death of his mother, Addie Bundren. Through his childlike perspective, Vardaman associates his mother's death with the death of a fish he caught earlier, creating a metaphorical connection between the two. This chapter showcases Faulkner's experimental narrative style and the complex themes of death, loss, and perception that are central to the novel.
16.
In Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery", how many times has Old Man Warner been in the lottery?
Correct Answer
B. 77
Explanation
Old Man Warner has been in the lottery 77 times. This information is mentioned in Shirley Jackson's short story "The Lottery". Old Man Warner is portrayed as a staunch supporter of the lottery tradition and believes that it brings good harvests to the village. His longevity in participating in the lottery demonstrates his deep-rooted adherence to the tradition and his resistance to change.
17.
Pygmalion is a legendary figure found in which narrative poem written by the Roman poet Ovid?
Correct Answer
C. MetamorpHoses
Explanation
The correct answer is Metamorphoses because it is a narrative poem written by the Roman poet Ovid, and it includes the story of Pygmalion. In this story, Pygmalion is a sculptor who falls in love with a statue he has created, and the statue is eventually brought to life by the goddess Venus.
18.
In S.E. Hinton's "The Outsiders", which book does Johnny ask for while he is in the hospital?
Correct Answer
C. Gone With The Wind
Explanation
In S.E. Hinton's "The Outsiders", Johnny asks for the book "Gone With The Wind" while he is in the hospital. This detail is significant because it shows Johnny's desire to escape his current reality and immerse himself in a different world. "Gone With The Wind" is a classic novel set during the American Civil War, and Johnny's interest in it reflects his longing for a different time and place. This choice also highlights Johnny's sensitivity and romantic nature, as he seeks solace in literature during a difficult time in his life.
19.
In Alice Walker's novel "The Color Purple", what is young Celie told about her two children?
Correct Answer
B. They Were Taken Away To Be With God
Explanation
In Alice Walker's novel "The Color Purple," young Celie is told that her two children were taken away to be with God. This suggests that her children have passed away and are now in the afterlife. The answer implies that Celie has lost her children and will not be able to raise them or see them again in this life.
20.
What is the Hawaiian name for Pearl Harbor?
Correct Answer
B. Pu Uloa
Explanation
Pu Uloa is the correct answer for the Hawaiian name for Pearl Harbor. "Pu" means hill or mound, and "Uloa" means long or extensive. Therefore, Pu Uloa can be translated as "long hill" or "extensive mound," which could be a reference to the shape or topography of the area surrounding Pearl Harbor.