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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. If the problem conquers the characters, how does Aristotle say the tragedy ends?
(a) Successfully.
(b) It ends just at the right time.
(c) Happily.
(d) Unhappily.

2. According to Aristotle, why do the greatest tragedy poets always choose characters that belong to such groups?
(a) A character with few friends is more interesting.
(b) A moral character is more believable.
(c) An educated character is more believable.
(d) A fall from such a great height will impress the spectator.

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

4. Aristotle explains that a sign is one of four types of recognition. What is an example of recognition occurring through the use of a sign?
(a) A character recognizes another by a certain scar or birthmark.
(b) A character has a vivid dream.
(c) A character receives a psychic reading.
(d) A character's action is interrupted by what seems to be divine intervention.

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

Short Answer Questions

1. Aristotle says that simply doing what well leaves a mediocre piece of art?

2. Artistically, what type of recognition does Aristotle consider to be a serious flaw?

3. As Aristotle explains, when an evil main character of a tragic story experiences misfortune, why doesn't this inspire certain key emotions in the audience?

4. As Aristotle explains, why must a poet be sensitive to the nature of language?

5. Aristotle warns that a tragedy poet should be careful with what?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Aristotle identify as the most successful kind of action in a tragedy and why?

2. 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?

3. 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.

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

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

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

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

8. In addition to recognition through sign, what are some other ways that Aristotle identifies as ways in which recognition can occur?

9. Does Aristotle believe that Homer's "Iliad" should be written in the format of a tragedy? Why or why not?

10. 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.

(see the answer keys)

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