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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How does Aristotle characterize tragedies with happy endings?
(a) He calls them great tragedies.
(b) He says they are Roman poetry.
(c) He says they are Greek poetry.
(d) He calls them comedies.

2. What does Aristotle say about Homer's "Iliad"?
(a) It lacks pity.
(b) It should be more tragic.
(c) It would not work in the format of a tragedy.
(d) It reminds him of a bad story.

3. Men are drawn to write poetry for several reasons. Which of the following is NOT one of the reasons Aristotle provides?
(a) There is a natural attraction to rhythm and harmony.
(b) Man is naturally attracted to imitation.
(c) Man is naturally attracted to beauty.
(d) Man enjoys learning.

4. According to Aristotle, what happens in a legitimate tragedy?
(a) The antagonist dies.
(b) Everyone wins at the end.
(c) Not everyone winds up happy.
(d) The main character dies.

5. According to "Poetics", what would be the analogy between the pen of a writer and the plow of a farmer?
(a) Both are people.
(b) They are tools: both are used to make a living.
(c) This is not an analogy.
(d) Both work.

Short Answer Questions

1. Based on Aristotle's teachings, why do some tragedies use certain effects when performed on stage?

2. According to Aristotle, why do the greatest tragedy poets always choose characters that belong to such groups?

3. Based on Aristotle's teachings about tragedy, how can the poet unify the plot?

4. In addition to a sign, what is the second kind of recognition as identified by Aristotle?

5. In what three ways does Aristotle differentiate various art forms from one another?

(see the answer key)

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