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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Aristotle explains that the complication accomplishes what?
(a) It ties the beginning to the end.
(b) It draws the reader in with the suspense of how the problem will be resolved, if it ever is.
(c) It evokes pity.
(d) It gives the reader a sense of resolution.

2. What does Aristotle say was the purpose of Homer's specifying the number of deeds Odysseus accomplished?
(a) To give the audience a literal understanding of Odysseus's deeds.
(b) Precision.
(c) To suggest the more general notion of a large number.
(d) To demonstrate how active Odysseus truly was.

3. Aristotle asserts that the main character of a tragedy must have what?
(a) A tragic past.
(b) A lot of money.
(c) Weakness.
(d) Complete confidence.

4. In depicting his main character, Aristotle says that the poet should always accomplish four things. Of the following, which is NOT one of these four things?
(a) The main character should be portrayed consistently.
(b) The poet should make the main character perfect.
(c) The poet should make the main character good.
(d) The goodness of the character should be appropriate.

5. What is the name that Aristotle uses for everyday words that every member of the audience can understand?
(a) "Current" words.
(b) "Simple" words.
(c) "Common" words.
(d) "Monosyllabic" words.

Short Answer Questions

1. What other name does Aristotle give to the conclusion of a tragedy?

2. Aristotle says that storytelling with episodic plots is to be favored by whom?

3. Based on Aristotle's teachings about tragedy, how can the poet unify the plot?

4. When does Aristotle feel that deviation from reality is justified?

5. What does Aristotle say about what many writers do with history?

(see the answer key)

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