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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Section I.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. According to Aristotle, how should the plot of a well-written tragedy be structured?
(a) With the end that makes readers want more.
(b) A structured plot makes bad poetry.
(c) With a logical beginning and end.
(d) It should leave the reader guessing until the end.

2. Per Aristotle, in which of the following ways does poetry NOT differ from history?
(a) Poetry tells the future, and history tells the past.
(b) Poetry is a higher pursuit than history.
(c) History is concerned simply with facts.
(d) Poetry depicts what happens according to the "laws of probability and necessity."

3. In a tragedy, how does Aristotle say the element of surprise should come about?
(a) Gradually.
(b) Only after recognition has occurred.
(c) Consistent with the principles of probability and necessity.
(d) Once the main character has demonstrated his worth and morals.

4. The plot, as Aristotle explains, should be unified in such a way that each part should be what?
(a) Trivial.
(b) Necessary to the whole.
(c) Necessary to other parts, but not to the whole.
(d) Equivalent.

5. What two things does Aristotle require to be present in a well-written story?
(a) Birth and death.
(b) Irony and foreshadowing.
(c) Conflict and pain.
(d) Rhythm and harmony.

Short Answer Questions

1. When a poet simply straightforwardly describes the events as they happen, what method does Aristotle say the poet is using?

2. What men does Aristotle consider to be "lower" types?

3. When a poet presents the poem in the voice of one of the characters, what method does Aristotle say that the poet is using?

4. What type of poetry does Aristotle say focuses on serious and important actions?

5. What type of situation does Aristotle explain occurs more frequently in tragedy?

(see the answer key)

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