View a FREE sample

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) Speaking in the third person.
(b) Insecure.
(c) Self-centered.
(d) Flawless.

2. What would Aristotle say about the following action: a man is about to kill his brother, thinking him to be his enemy, but discovers his identity and therefore spares his life?
(a) An interesting turn of events.
(b) The most successful kind of action.
(c) Poor plot development.
(d) Poor execution.

3. 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's action is interrupted by what seems to be divine intervention.
(c) A character has a vivid dream.
(d) A character recognizes another by a certain scar or birthmark.

4. In a tragedy, how does Aristotle say the element of surprise should come about?
(a) Once the main character has demonstrated his worth and morals.
(b) Gradually.
(c) Only after recognition has occurred.
(d) Consistent with the principles of probability and necessity.

5. Into how many parts does Aristotle divide the plot of a tragedy?
(a) Three.
(b) Four.
(c) Two.
(d) Aristotle does not divide the plot of a tragedy, but rather sees it as a whole.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Aristotle compare the medium of poetry and prose?

2. In how many ways does Aristotle say the method of imitation can differ?

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

4. Based on Aristotle's "Poetics", great tragedy poets always choose characters that belong to what?

5. What does Aristotle identify as the foundation of good poetry writing?

(see the answer key)

This section contains 335 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample