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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In a good tragedy, Aristotle explains that the misfortune the main character experiences is usually caused by what?
(a) Stupidity.
(b) Misguided love.
(c) The character's weakness.
(d) The character's arrogance.

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

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

4. As Aristotle states, what ways are epic poems different from other poems, specifically tragedies?
(a) They are much shorter.
(b) They are of considerably greater length and scope.
(c) They tend to rhyme.
(d) The meter of epic poems is unimportant.

5. Based on Aristotle's teachings about tragedy, how can the poet unify the plot?
(a) Establishing clear relationships between actions the rest of the plot.
(b) Develop characters who behave in a believable manner.
(c) Use complete sentences.
(d) Use more verbs.

Short Answer Questions

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

2. Based on Aristotle's "Poetics", great tragedy poets always choose characters that belong to what?

3. What does Aristotle say that a well-crafted tragedy has?

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

5. Aristotle asserts that the main character of a tragedy must have what?

Short Essay Questions

1. Based on "Poetics" by Aristotle, explain how the effect of a sad plot will be magnified?

2. In order for a plot to be truly effective in achieving the desired emotional responses, Aristotle explains that the actions portrayed in it must be of a certain character. Explain.

3. When does Aristotle say the use of recognition through sign is used poorly?

4. If the tragedy is to be performed, what does Aristotle say the poet should ensure and why?

5. Why does Aristotle consider a failed action in a tragedy where the character was aware of the circumstances then failed to follow through to be a poor development in the plot?

6. What types of situations does Aristotle say occur frequently in tragedy and why?

7. What does Aristotle identify as the goal of tragedy?

8. In regard to the plot device of recognition, give an example that Aristotle provides in "Poetics" of how recognition can occur through some recognition of sign.

9. What does Aristotle say that a poet should do first when constructing the plot of a tragedy?

10. Give an example that Aristotle provides in "Poetics" of the most successful kind of action in a tragedy.

(see the answer keys)

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