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This test consists of 15 multiple choice questions and 5 short answer questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. To Aristotle, what type of recognition is considered superior to any other kind?
(a) Recognition through reasoning.
(b) Recognition based on rumors.
(c) Recognition through a holy experience.
(d) Recognition through the use of a sign.

2. If the problem conquers the characters, how does Aristotle say the tragedy ends?
(a) Happily.
(b) It ends just at the right time.
(c) Unhappily.
(d) Successfully.

3. Artistically, what type of recognition does Aristotle consider to be a serious flaw?
(a) Recognition through divine intervention.
(b) Recognition that occurs suddenly.
(c) A recurring recognition.
(d) Recognition that is not connected with the flow of the plot.

4. According to Aristotle, a great plot consists of an action that almost occurs, but doesn't because of what?
(a) The main character thwarts evil actions.
(b) Reversal of Situation.
(c) Irony.
(d) A discovery by the character.

5. According to Aristotle, what type of poets attempt to create tragedies that result in everyone ultimately being happy?
(a) Poets more interested in winning an award.
(b) Poets more concerned with pleasing their audience.
(c) Optimistic poets.
(d) Innovative poets.

6. As Aristotle explains, when an evil main character of a tragic story experiences misfortune, why doesn't this inspire certain key emotions in the audience?
(a) Often, people get angry when another gets hurt.
(b) The man will be perceived as receiving what he deserved.
(c) People do not enjoy watching another suffer.
(d) People fear similar misfortune.

7. What example does Aristotle provide of recognition occurring through the will of the poet?
(a) There is no such thing as recognition through the will of the poet.
(b) The main character reveals himself to the antagonist when the reader least expects.
(c) One character may reveal himself to another for no reason.
(d) A character is revealed when the poet announces it.

8. What is the purpose of the conclusion according to Aristotle?
(a) It leads to the middle of the story.
(b) It shows how the problem is eventually solved or not solved.
(c) It ties the beginning and the end together.
(d) It gives the reader a sense of suspense.

9. In a tragedy, Aristotle warns that the poet must NOT choose a character who is altogether what?
(a) Bitter.
(b) Evil.
(c) Generous.
(d) Good.

10. What does Aristotle say that a well-crafted tragedy has?
(a) Powerful characters with morals.
(b) Excellent irony.
(c) Consistent foreshadowing.
(d) A masterfully written complication and unraveling.

11. Aristotle says that an action that is failed to be performed in a tragedy by the person who is aware of the circumstances is what?
(a) Reversal of Situation.
(b) The least effective poetically.
(c) Good judgment.
(d) Reconsideration.

12. If the characters conquer the problem, how does Aristotle say the tragedy ends?
(a) Sadly.
(b) It ends too soon.
(c) Without pity.
(d) Happily.

13. Based on Aristotle's teachings, why do some tragedies use certain effects when performed on stage?
(a) To justify higher ticket prices.
(b) To impress their spectators.
(c) Because they are "silent" tragedies.
(d) To express language visually.

14. What does Aristotle consider to be the most tragic event?
(a) A member of a family killing another.
(b) A mother abandoning her child.
(c) Two lovers splitting up.
(d) Adultery.

15. If the story is performed, why, according to Aristotle, should actors act with appropriate gestures to demonstrate their emotions and thoughts as the story progresses?
(a) None of the answers is correct.
(b) Gestures are more important than dialogue.
(c) Aristotle says that gestures compensate for a bad story.
(d) Aristotle says that spectators will not be able to infer these simply from the dialog alone.

Short Answer Questions

1. In a good tragedy as defined by Aristotle, why wouldn't you see two evil men fighting and killing one another?

2. Aristotle asserts that the main character of a tragedy must have what?

3. As Aristotle explains, why must a poet be sensitive to the nature of language?

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

5. Why does Aristotle believe that a failed action by a character that is unaware is more effective than a failed action by a character that is aware?

(see the answer keys)

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