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

Multiple Choice Questions

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

2. What, as Aristotle states, are good poets forced to do when they write stories with episodic plots?
(a) To write better.
(b) To shorten their stories.
(c) To write poorly.
(d) To lengthen their stories.

3. In a good tragedy, Aristotle explains that the misfortune the main character experiences is usually caused by what?
(a) The character's arrogance.
(b) Misguided love.
(c) Stupidity.
(d) The character's weakness.

4. Aristotle says what type of poetry imitates the "lower" types of men?
(a) Roman poetry.
(b) Greek poetry.
(c) Tragedy.
(d) Comedy.

5. Aristotle explains that actions described in a tragic plot should have certain characteristics. Which one of the following is NOT one of the characteristics that Aristotle identifies?
(a) Actions should be minute and trivial.
(b) Actions should be interesting.
(c) Actions should help the reader grasp the significance of the whole.
(d) Actions should be not too small or too large.

Short Answer Questions

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

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?

3. As Aristotle explains, why must a poet be sensitive to the nature of language?

4. What is the purpose of the conclusion according to Aristotle?

5. In art, Aristotle defines the medium as what?

(see the answer key)

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