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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Part II, Sections I - IX.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Burke assert is necessary for the success of "A Philosophical Enquiry Into the Origin of Our Ideas of the Sublime and Beautiful"?
(a) To debunk all outmoded notions of the sublime.
(b) To demonstrate his expansive knowledge of the passions.
(c) To establish the principles of taste.
(d) To make his readers agree with him.

2. What examples does Burke use to argue that some sights are pleasurable to all people?
(a) Objects he says can only be found in country estates.
(b) Objects he opines are among the ugliest animal species.
(c) Objects he and others he knows think are beautiful.
(d) Objects or ideas that he argues are morally repugnant.

3. What are sources of the "sublime?"
(a) Anything of beauty.
(b) Anything that causes the subject to think deeply.
(c) Anything that promotes pleasure.
(d) Anything that excites terror, pain, or danger.

4. What, according to Burke, is responsible for common deviations in natural taste?
(a) Humankind's natural curiosity.
(b) A willingness to deceive others.
(c) Confusion of the mind.
(d) Custom and habit.

5. What examples does Burke use to prove that people agree upon sensory observations?
(a) The tastes of sweet, bitter, and sour.
(b) The pleasantness or unpleasantness of certain thoughts.
(c) Sudden, loud sounds as opposed to quiet, soft sounds.
(d) Feelings of sharp or soft.

Short Answer Questions

1. What will be Burke's focus in "A Philosophical Enquiry Into the Origin of Our Ideas of the Sublime and Beautiful"?

2. Why is grief a part of pleasure, according to Burke?

3. What does Burke assert about sensory observation?

4. What natural powers in man does Burke say relate to external objects?

5. Which example does Burke use in his discussion in Section VIII about infinity?

(see the answer key)

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