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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 29, Buffooneries, Chapter 30, Sententiae, Chapter 31, Appendix.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is Man's one unique characteristic, per Chapter 1?
(a) Imagination.
(b) Optimism.
(c) Romantic feeling.
(d) The ability to betray.

2. What event does Mencken believe led to the European Renaissance?
(a) The Rise of Charlemagne.
(b) The invention of the printing press.
(c) The Fall of Rome.
(d) The Black Plague.

3. According to Chapter 16, which political system is responsible for the majority of civilization as we know it?
(a) Dictatorship.
(b) Capitalism.
(c) Socialism.
(d) Oligarchy.

4. Which is NOT one of the qualities Mencken ascribes to William Jennings Bryan?
(a) Charlatanism.
(b) Lack of dignity.
(c) Preference to keep in the company of intellectuals.
(d) Insanity.

5. What is Mencken's opinion of original Christians?
(a) They were "men's men" and should be looked upon as examples.
(b) The historical record is so poor that Mencken cannot form an opinion.
(c) They were patriots, akin to the Founding Fathers.
(d) They were vulgar cads without imagination.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who rules American culture, according to Chapter 10?

2. What does Mencken believe about physical punishment in education?

3. What American book does Mencken call one of history's great masterpieces?

4. Why is music difficult as a trade?

5. How does Mencken characterize the emotional state of most schoolboys?

(see the answer key)

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