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

Multiple Choice Questions

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

2. What does Aristotle identify as a poet's medium?
(a) Spiritual inspiration.
(b) Language.
(c) Language and heart.
(d) Language and passion.

3. What other name does Aristotle give to the conclusion of a tragedy?
(a) The climax.
(b) The turning point.
(c) The unraveling.
(d) The big tragic event.

4. Aristotle explains that the complication accomplishes what?
(a) It evokes pity.
(b) It ties the beginning to the end.
(c) It gives the reader a sense of resolution.
(d) It draws the reader in with the suspense of how the problem will be resolved, if it ever is.

5. What two things does Aristotle require to be present in a well-written story?
(a) Irony and foreshadowing.
(b) Conflict and pain.
(c) Rhythm and harmony.
(d) Birth and death.

Short Answer Questions

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

2. Aristotle defines poetic work as what?

3. In a tragic story, a mother who is about to kill her son--and she is aware that it is her son--does not carry out the action. Aristotle uses this as an example of what?

4. Artistically, what type of recognition does Aristotle consider to be a serious flaw?

5. What example does Aristotle provide of recognition occurring through the will of the poet?

(see the answer key)

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