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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. Why, according to Burke, do we delight in the tragedies of others?
(a) All humans have a sadistic streak.
(b) This is a function of sympathy instilled in us by our Creator.
(c) There is little else in the world in which to delight.
(d) We are happy we are not the victims.

2. 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 demonstrate his expansive knowledge of the passions.
(b) To establish the principles of taste.
(c) To make his readers agree with him.
(d) To debunk all outmoded notions of the sublime.

3. To which human faculty does "taste" belong?
(a) To the imagination.
(b) To the will.
(c) To the passions.
(d) To the soul.

4. What does Burke hope will be the result of his "A Philosophical Enquiry Into the Origin of Our Ideas of the Sublime and Beautiful"?
(a) Readers will leave the sciences behind in favor of imagination and passion.
(b) Readers will be well-versed in the scientific method.
(c) Readers will learn to control their passions when in specific social settings.
(d) Readers will apply principles of taste and passion to the otherwise severe sciences.

5. What example does Burke offer to show his ideas on the effects of tragedy?
(a) A mass-murderer terrorizing the city.
(b) The shocking regicide of the monarch.
(c) A mother and father losing their infant to an early death.
(d) London being destroyed by an earthquake.

Short Answer Questions

1. How do all emotions and passions affect the human mind?

2. What, according to Burke, is the first and most simple emotion of the human mind?

3. Burke asserts that vastness of dimension is as sublime as:

4. What is Burke's general plan of action for this book?

5. How does Burke use the word "delight?"

(see the answer key)

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