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This test consists of 15 multiple choice questions and 5 short answer questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In a tragedy, Aristotle warns that the poet must NOT choose a character who is altogether what?
(a) Good.
(b) Evil.
(c) Generous.
(d) Bitter.

2. Aristotle says that simply doing what well leaves a mediocre piece of art?
(a) Writing a complication and unraveling.
(b) Infusing irony just at the beginning.
(c) Giving the reader a sense of suspense.
(d) Developing a main character that does not have a close friend.

3. What is the purpose of the conclusion according to Aristotle?
(a) It shows how the problem is eventually solved or not solved.
(b) It leads to the middle of the story.
(c) It gives the reader a sense of suspense.
(d) It ties the beginning and the end together.

4. Why does Aristotle believe that a failed action by a character that is unaware is more effective than a failed action by a character that is aware?
(a) The morals of the character that is unaware remain intact, and the first situation inspires more fear.
(b) They are equally ineffective.
(c) They are equally effective.
(d) The second situation inspires more fear, but less pity.

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

6. Concerning what Aristotle says about the conclusion of a tragedy, which of the following statements is FALSE?
(a) The problem can conquer the characters and the story ends unhappily.
(b) The characters always resolve the issues and harmony is restored.
(c) The characters can conquer the problem.
(d) The story can end happily.

7. According to Aristotle, a great plot consists of an action that almost occurs, but doesn't because of what?
(a) Irony.
(b) The main character thwarts evil actions.
(c) Reversal of Situation.
(d) A discovery by the character.

8. Based on Aristotle's teachings, why do some tragedies use certain effects when performed on stage?
(a) Because they are "silent" tragedies.
(b) To express language visually.
(c) To justify higher ticket prices.
(d) To impress their spectators.

9. According to Aristotle, what happens in a legitimate tragedy?
(a) The main character dies.
(b) The antagonist dies.
(c) Not everyone winds up happy.
(d) Everyone wins at the end.

10. Based on "Poetics", how will the effect of a sad plot of a tragic story be magnified?
(a) If the main character realizes his weaknesses.
(b) If the misfortune is greater.
(c) If the antagonist turns over a new leaf.
(d) If the main character dies.

11. If the characters conquer the problem, how does Aristotle say the tragedy ends?
(a) Sadly.
(b) Happily.
(c) It ends too soon.
(d) Without pity.

12. In depicting his main character, Aristotle says that the poet should always accomplish four things. Of the following, which is NOT one of these four things?
(a) The poet should make the main character good.
(b) The goodness of the character should be appropriate.
(c) The main character should be portrayed consistently.
(d) The poet should make the main character perfect.

13. According to Aristotle, what type of poets attempt to create tragedies that result in everyone ultimately being happy?
(a) Innovative poets.
(b) Optimistic poets.
(c) Poets more interested in winning an award.
(d) Poets more concerned with pleasing their audience.

14. What type of tragedy does Aristotle say does NOT require impressive visual effects when performed on stage to impress their spectators?
(a) A complex tragedy.
(b) A superior tragedy with a strong plot.
(c) An episodic tragedy.
(d) An unusual tragedy.

15. Aristotle asserts that the main character of a tragedy must have what?
(a) A tragic past.
(b) Complete confidence.
(c) A lot of money.
(d) Weakness.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Aristotle consider to be the most tragic event?

2. Aristotle says that an action that is failed to be performed in a tragedy by the person who is aware of the circumstances is what?

3. As Aristotle states, what ways are epic poems different from other poems, specifically tragedies?

4. In a good tragedy, Aristotle explains that the misfortune the main character experiences is usually caused by what?

5. In a tragedy, which of the following would Aristotle consider to be false?

(see the answer keys)

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