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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through 10-14.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In "Pater Patriae," which was NOT one of the reasons Mencken admired George Washington?
(a) He was tough-living, and whiskey-drinking.
(b) He was not convinced of the wisdom of common people.
(c) He put his trust and authority in intellectuals and lawyers.
(d) He could cuss up a storm.

2. Who is the editor of this volume?
(a) Alfred Knopf.
(b) William Jennings Bryan.
(c) Alistair Cooke.
(d) H. L. Mencken.

3. Why do the majority of people lie, according to Mencken?
(a) They lie for fame.
(b) They lie for profit.
(c) They are unhappy with their lot in life.
(d) They are fearful of being arrested.

4. What does Mencken make synonymous with democracy in "A Blind Spot"?
(a) Hedonism.
(b) Agnosticism.
(c) Puritanism.
(d) Totalitarianism.

5. Charlie the policeman was charged with which task, in "Recollections of Notable Cops"?
(a) Finding and arresting at least a dozen drunkards every shift.
(b) Recruiting craftsmen to refurbish the jail.
(c) Investigating a serial pursesnatcher.
(d) Organizing the annual policeman's ball.

Short Answer Questions

1. What did Mencken satirize in "Quid Est Veritas"?

2. What does Mencken state about the literary influence(s) of Theodore Dreiser?

3. What one thing did Mencken feel was useful from the contributions of Sigmund Freud?

4. What part of Mencken's work is NOT included in the volume?

5. What do saints have in common with scientists?

(see the answer key)

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