1. Why did Bakhtin feel his times were comparable to those of the Renaissance?
(a) Two political leaders of the different eras were incredibly alike.
(b) The literatures and cultures of both eras bore a distinct resemblance.
(c) The specific threat of disease was killing many people in both times.
(d) Both eras were times of broad social change that left people unsure of how to proceed.

2. How did Rabelais obtain the material for his writings?
(a) By attending many fairs and festivals and observing all the people there.
(b) By receiving a divine revelation.
(c) By studying manuscripts for long hours in monasteries.
(d) By interviewing thousands of market vendors.

3. Why are Rabelais' billingsgate elements considered "coarse and cynical" by most scholars?
(a) Many scholars interpret them only in a modern context.
(b) These elements express a deep distrust of contemporary society.
(c) The Latin derivations of his scatological vocabulary mean "cynical."
(d) Many scholars believe that Rabelais himself was bitter from publication disputes.

4. Medieval parodies were:
(a) Limited to parody of individuals.
(b) Concerned with the positive, humorous aspects of everything.
(c) Focused on the negative aspects of society.
(d) Limited to religious parody.

5. What do Rabelais' various works indicate about the popular notion of urination?
(a) Urination can only be used for comic purposes.
(b) Urination fertilizes the earth and creates bodies of water.
(c) Urination is disgusting and should be done privately.
(d) Urination is a medical mystery that baffles doctors.