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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Aristotle say about Homer's "Iliad"?
(a) It reminds him of a bad story.
(b) It would not work in the format of a tragedy.
(c) It should be more tragic.
(d) It lacks pity.

2. To what term does Aristotle give the following meaning: to imitate human action within the bounds of a sound understanding of the world and how events occur within it.
(a) The end of poetry.
(b) Artistic expression.
(c) Creative license.
(d) Historical fiction.

3. What does Aristotle consider to be the most tragic event?
(a) Adultery.
(b) A mother abandoning her child.
(c) Two lovers splitting up.
(d) A member of a family killing another.

4. According to Aristotle, why do good poets sometimes write stories using episodic plots?
(a) Because episodic plots are considered more interesting.
(b) To showcase their skills in contests.
(c) They never write stories using episodic plots.
(d) For the challenge.

5. Above all, what should well-written poetry do according to Aristotle?
(a) Clearly express its meaning.
(b) Use as many metaphors as possible.
(c) Persuade the reader to do something.
(d) Give the reader chills.

Short Answer Questions

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

2. Aristotle explains that the poet can err through lacking the artistic capacity to do what?

3. As for writing style, what risk does Aristotle believe the poet runs when he uses an excessive amount of metaphors?

4. Aristotle believes that a poet can turn a complex plot into a simple one by doing what?

5. What form of art does Aristotle consider to be more refined and superior?

(see the answer key)

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