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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

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

2. Why does Aristotle believe that the main character of a tragedy ought to be a certain way?

3. Based on Aristotle's teachings about tragedy, how can the poet unify the plot?

4. What is the purpose of the conclusion according to Aristotle?

5. If the problem conquers the characters, how does Aristotle say the tragedy ends?

Short Essay Questions

1. While some tragedies may use impressive visual effects when performed on stage to impress their spectators, what type of tragedy according to Aristotle does not require such spectacles and why?

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

3. Give an example that Aristotle provides in "Poetics" of a failed action where the character of a tragic story was aware of the circumstances then failed to follow through.

4. 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.

5. What type of recognition is considered by Aristotle to be superior to the others and why?

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

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

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

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Based on Aristotle's "Poetics", how does poetry differ from history according to Aristotle? Why is poetry considered a higher pursuit than history to Aristotle? How does Aristotle define the "laws of probability and necessity"?

Essay Topic 2

How would you develop an episodic plot as defined by Aristotle? What type of poets does Aristotle say are known to use this form of storytelling? Why do other types of poets use this form?

Essay Topic 3

Choose one of the following to write about:

1) Based on your interpretation of "Poetics", compare the writing styles and balance of well written poetry versus poorly written poetry.

2) Discuss why a poet, according to Aristotle, must always be sure to keep the plots for his stories simple.

3) Compare history and poetry through the eyes of Aristotle. Explain the mistake many writers make when writing stories from history.

(see the answer keys)

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