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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In a tragedy, Aristotle says that the main character cannot be what?
(a) Self-centered.
(b) Speaking in the third person.
(c) Flawless.
(d) Insecure.

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

3. In poetry, what is the term that Aristotle gives for an action that aims to accomplish a certain goal, but actually accomplishes the opposite?
(a) Failure.
(b) Tragedy.
(c) Irony.
(d) Reversal of Situation.

4. Aristotle warns that a tragedy poet should be careful with what?
(a) Choosing ironic events.
(b) Writing the middle, as it is the most important part of a tragedy.
(c) Picking the content for the poem.
(d) The poet should be careful not to write a happy ending.

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

Short Answer Questions

1. What type of stories does Aristotle identify as more fit for epic poems than tragedies?

2. 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?

3. What does Aristotle consider to be the most tragic event?

4. What type of situation does Aristotle explain occurs more frequently in tragedy?

5. According to Aristotle, what happens in a legitimate tragedy?

(see the answer key)

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