Renaissance Drama

1.

Characters are always members of the nobility

A.

Classical tragedy
B.

Elizabethan tragedy
C.

Both

Correct Answer
A. Classical tragedy

Explanation
Classical tragedy refers to a genre of drama that originated in ancient Greece and Rome. One of the defining characteristics of classical tragedy is that the main characters are typically members of the nobility or high-ranking individuals. This is because classical tragedy often explores themes of power, fate, and the downfall of great individuals. In contrast, Elizabethan tragedy, which emerged during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I in England, does not necessarily restrict its characters to the nobility. Therefore, the statement that "characters are always members of the nobility" aligns with the characteristics of classical tragedy.

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2.

Revenge is a frequent theme

A.

Classical tragedy
B.

Elizabethan tragedy
C.

Both

Correct Answer
C. Both

Explanation
Both classical tragedy and Elizabethan tragedy frequently explore the theme of revenge. In classical tragedy, revenge is often depicted as a destructive force that leads to the downfall of the protagonist. This can be seen in plays like "Medea" and "Hamlet". In Elizabethan tragedy, revenge is also a common theme, with plays like "Hamlet" and "Titus Andronicus" focusing on characters seeking vengeance for perceived wrongs. Therefore, the correct answer is both.

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3.

The play always ends in death

A.

Classical tragedy
B.

Elizabethan tragedy
C.

Both

Correct Answer
C. Both

Explanation
Both Classical tragedy and Elizabethan tragedy often end in death. In Classical tragedy, the protagonist usually meets a tragic fate, often resulting in their death. This is seen in plays like "Oedipus Rex" and "Antigone" by Sophocles. Similarly, Elizabethan tragedy, particularly the works of William Shakespeare, also frequently feature tragic endings with the death of major characters, such as Romeo and Juliet in "Romeo and Juliet" and Hamlet in "Hamlet". Therefore, the correct answer is that both Classical tragedy and Elizabethan tragedy end in death.

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4.

Comic scenes are introduced

A.

Classical tragedy
B.

Elizabethan tragedy
C.

Both

Correct Answer
B. Elizabethan tragedy

Explanation
Elizabethan tragedy is the correct answer because comic scenes were commonly introduced in Elizabethan tragedies. Unlike classical tragedies, which focused solely on serious and tragic themes, Elizabethan tragedies often included elements of humor and comic relief. This allowed the audience to experience a range of emotions and provided a contrast to the intense and tragic events of the play. Therefore, the presence of comic scenes is a characteristic feature of Elizabethan tragedy.

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5.

There is no action on stage: a messenger reports it

A.

Senecan tragedy
B.

Elizabethan tragedy
C.

Both

Correct Answer
A. Senecan tragedy

Explanation
Senecan tragedy is the correct answer because in Senecan tragedies, there is often a lack of action on stage. Instead, important events and actions are reported by messengers or characters offstage. This style of storytelling allows for a focus on intense emotions, moral dilemmas, and philosophical ideas rather than physical action. In contrast, Elizabethan tragedies, influenced by Shakespeare, typically feature more action and dramatic events happening directly on stage. Therefore, the given description aligns with the characteristics of Senecan tragedy.

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6.

Elizabethan companies included

A.

Actors
B.

Playwrights
C.

Theatre owners
D.

All of the above

Correct Answer
D. All of the above

Explanation
During the Elizabethan era, companies involved in theater productions included actors, playwrights, and theater owners. This means that all of these three entities were part of the Elizabethan theater industry. Actors were the individuals who performed on stage, bringing the plays to life. Playwrights were responsible for writing the plays that were performed. Theater owners were the individuals who owned and managed the theaters where the performances took place. Therefore, "all of the above" is the correct answer as it includes all three key components of the Elizabethan theater companies.

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7.

The Elizabethan public theatre did not feature

A.

Different performing spaces
B.

A front-stage curtain
C.

A trap door

Correct Answer
B. A front-stage curtain

Explanation
In the Elizabethan public theatre, a front-stage curtain was not featured. This means that there was no curtain separating the stage from the audience. The lack of a front-stage curtain allowed for a more intimate and interactive experience between the actors and the audience. It also meant that scene changes and entrances/exits were done in full view of the audience, adding to the theatricality of the performances.

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8.

The groundlings did not particularly enjoy

A.

Imagery
B.

Bloody scenes
C.

Coarse humour

Correct Answer
A. Imagery

Explanation
The groundlings did not particularly enjoy imagery because it may have been too abstract or difficult for them to understand. They preferred more straightforward and easily accessible forms of entertainment such as bloody scenes and coarse humor.

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9.

Shakespeare wrote

A.

History plays
B.

Tragedies
C.

Comedies
D.

All of the above

Correct Answer
D. All of the above

Explanation
Shakespeare wrote a wide range of plays, including history plays, tragedies, and comedies. His history plays, such as "Henry V" and "Richard III," depict events from English history. His tragedies, like "Hamlet" and "Macbeth," explore themes of ambition, betrayal, and revenge. His comedies, such as "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and "Much Ado About Nothing," are known for their witty dialogue and humorous situations. Therefore, the correct answer is "all of the above" because Shakespeare wrote plays in all of these genres.

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10.

Shakespeare’s contribution rests on his choice of

A.

Imagery
B.

Characterization
C.

Themes
D.

All of the above

Correct Answer
D. All of the above

Explanation
Shakespeare's contribution to literature is significant because of his skillful use of imagery, his ability to create complex and memorable characters, and the universal themes explored in his works. Through his vivid and evocative imagery, Shakespeare brings his plays and poems to life, allowing readers and audiences to fully immerse themselves in the world he creates. His characters are multi-dimensional and relatable, with their flaws and virtues, making them enduring and timeless. Additionally, Shakespeare's exploration of themes such as love, power, and ambition resonates with people from different cultures and time periods, making his works enduring and influential.

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