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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Based on Aristotle's "Poetics", what does tragedy effectively achieve?
(a) None of the answers is correct.
(b) The middle of poetry.
(c) The beginning of poetry.
(d) The end of poetry.

2. Why, as identified by Aristotle, can the scale of story told by epics be much greater than what is allowed by the format of tragedy?
(a) Because it's written as a historical event.
(b) Because it's written as a love story.
(c) Because it's science fiction.
(d) Because it's written as a narrative.

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

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

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 help the reader grasp the significance of the whole.
(b) Actions should be interesting.
(c) Actions should be minute and trivial.
(d) Actions should be not too small or too large.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Aristotle say about what many writers do with history?

2. In art, what does Aristotle believe to be the object?

3. Generally performed for an audience, tragic poetry, as Aristotle explains, is embellished with episodes and gestures for what reason?

4. Based on Aristotle's teachings, why do some tragedies use certain effects when performed on stage?

5. What does Aristotle identify as the most essential element of tragedy?

(see the answer key)

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