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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Aristotle consider to be the most tragic event?
(a) A mother abandoning her child.
(b) Two lovers splitting up.
(c) A member of a family killing another.
(d) Adultery.

2. The object poetry portrays is what, according to Aristotle?
(a) Tragic events.
(b) Other poets.
(c) Various places around the world.
(d) Men in action.

3. Why does Aristotle believe that the main character of a tragedy ought to be a certain way?
(a) A main character can become strong.
(b) People take pity on weak characters.
(c) Because the character's weakness ought to be the cause of his misfortune.
(d) Because no one is perfect.

4. What men does Aristotle consider to be "lower" types?
(a) Unemployed men.
(b) Single men.
(c) Men who are poor and unhealthy.
(d) Men who are defective in some way, but not altogether evil or malicious towards others.

5. Concerning what Aristotle says about the conclusion of a tragedy, which of the following statements is FALSE?
(a) The characters always resolve the issues and harmony is restored.
(b) The problem can conquer the characters and the story ends unhappily.
(c) The story can end happily.
(d) The characters can conquer the problem.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Aristotle believe that a failed action by a person who is aware of the circumstances is considered to be of a certain quality?

2. A character attempting to save his friend but accidentally killing him instead is an example Aristotle gives for what?

3. To Aristotle, what type of recognition is considered superior to any other kind?

4. According to Aristotle, a great plot consists of an action that almost occurs, but doesn't because of what?

5. As Aristotle states, what ways are epic poems different from other poems, specifically tragedies?

(see the answer key)

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