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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Which of the following does Aristotle consider an acceptable reason for a poet to depict men and their actions inaccurately?
(a) A poet wants to convey how the man should be.
(b) The inaccuracies are of considerable measure.
(c) The depictions are interesting.
(d) A poet is unaware of his inaccurate depictions.

2. How does Aristotle define "poetic charm"?
(a) Rhyme.
(b) The pleasantness of a poet's words.
(c) Another term for great rhythm.
(d) Effective use of metaphors.

3. What does Aristotle say about the element of surprise in a tragedy?
(a) It helps inspire pity.
(b) It helps inspire joy.
(c) It helps inspire sadness.
(d) It keeps the reader guessing and interested.

4. Aristotle says that at most, episodic plots involve what?
(a) Sad middle and happy ending.
(b) Strange irony.
(c) Disconnected foreshadowing.
(d) The same characters.

5. 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) A main character can become strong.
(c) People take pity on weak characters.
(d) Because no one is perfect.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Aristotle, what types of poetic errors are less serious in nature?

2. Based on Aristotle's teachings, if the main character of a tragedy is totally without fault, his fall would not be due to his own fault, but rather what?

3. When a poet does not understand that which he is attempting to depict, Aristotle considers this what type of error?

4. Into what two types does Aristotle divide actions?

5. Based on an example in the context of metaphors that Aristotle provides in "Poetics", what is the more general sentence?

(see the answer key)

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