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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Section III.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Aristotle defines poetic work as what?
(a) A spiritual journey.
(b) A love affair.
(c) A philosophical undertaking.
(d) A bad imitation.

2. Above all, what should well-written poetry do according to Aristotle?
(a) Persuade the reader to do something.
(b) Give the reader chills.
(c) Use as many metaphors as possible.
(d) Clearly express its meaning.

3. Based on "Poetics", how will the effect of a sad plot of a tragic story be magnified?
(a) If the main character realizes his weaknesses.
(b) If the antagonist turns over a new leaf.
(c) If the main character dies.
(d) If the misfortune is greater.

4. In a tragedy, how does Aristotle say the element of surprise should come about?
(a) Only after recognition has occurred.
(b) Consistent with the principles of probability and necessity.
(c) Gradually.
(d) Once the main character has demonstrated his worth and morals.

5. In writing a history, Aristotle explains that one necessarily writes of actions which are what?
(a) Unified.
(b) Inconsistent.
(c) Not unified.
(d) Consistent.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Aristotle, why could tragedy be classified as less refined than epic poetry?

2. How does Aristotle compare the medium of poetry and prose?

3. What does Aristotle say that a well-crafted tragedy has?

4. Why does Aristotle say that Homer's "Iliad" is not a tragedy?

5. Per Aristotle, the unity of plot is what to the unity of a character's actions?

(see the answer key)

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