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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Act 1, Scene 1.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. The prologue begins with a comparison of what?
(a) Fortune and destiny.
(b) Poets and other artists.
(c) Two kinds of fools.
(d) Poets and members of society.

2. By firing back at the audience, what does Congreve do?
(a) He infuriates the audience.
(b) He defends his decision to add some unusual and new elements to the play.
(c) He lectures them about their lack of artistic understanding.
(d) He pretends to admire them while he really hates them.

3. What is the purpose of this play's prologue?
(a) To set the stage for a 'rant' against society.
(b) To instruct the audience about love.
(c) To encourage other poets.
(d) To introduce Congreve and his play.

4. What is the second kind of fool blessed by?
(a) How their lives evolve over time.
(b) Fortune.
(c) Upbringing.
(d) Religious beliefs.

5. Who told Lady Wishfort about Mirabell's deception?
(a) Foible.
(b) Mrs. Millamant.
(c) Fainall.
(d) Mrs. Marwood.

Short Answer Questions

1. What news does the footman bring Mirabell at the chocolate house?

2. Another dramatic device is used in the final lines of Act 1, Scene 1 when Mirabell hints at a scheme involving Wishfort's maid. This device is known as:

3. What does the dramatic device of naming characters that are symbolic of their personality traits allow the playwright Congreve to do?

4. Why is Fainall bored when talking with Mirabell in the chocolate house?

5. What does the prologue do?

(see the answer key)

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