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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Aristotle identify as the foundation of good poetry writing?
(a) Using well-researched historical events.
(b) Probability and necessity.
(c) Irony.
(d) An interesting twist or turn.

2. Aristotle explains that a sign is one of four types of recognition. What is an example of recognition occurring through the use of a sign?
(a) A character receives a psychic reading.
(b) A character recognizes another by a certain scar or birthmark.
(c) A character has a vivid dream.
(d) A character's action is interrupted by what seems to be divine intervention.

3. What is the opposite of "current" words as defined by Aristotle?
(a) "Past" words.
(b) "Outdated" words.
(c) "Strange" words.
(d) "Old" words.

4. According to Aristotle, how does tragedy achieve the emotion it inspires?
(a) Using the element of surprise.
(b) Irony.
(c) Deceit.
(d) Contradiction.

5. What type of action does Aristotle say occurs with "Recognition" and/or "Reversal of Situation"?
(a) Bad.
(b) Happy.
(c) Complex.
(d) Congruent.

Short Answer Questions

1. Aristotle says that it's important for any poet to master what in a tragedy?

2. When a poet does not understand that which he is attempting to depict, Aristotle considers this what type of error?

3. What does Aristotle say about the element of surprise in a tragedy?

4. When constructing the plot, the poet ought to do what first, according to Aristotle?

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

(see the answer key)

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