A Practice Test On Literary Terms: Quiz
Practice test on literary terms. Writers are expected to captivate their audience by writing and using different types of literary devices. One of the best ways that people get to analyze most of the terms used by different people is through the study of some of the best writings. By taking this quiz, you will get to do just that. Give it a try and see how well you will do.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
An example of _____________ is when Rainsford constructs three traps to hinder Zaroff's pursuit.
- A.
Foreshadowing
- B.
Rising action
- C.
Climax
- D.
Resolution
- E.
Exposition
Correct Answer
B. Rising actionExplanation
The given correct answer is "rising action" because it refers to the series of events that build suspense and tension in a story, leading up to the climax. In this example, Rainsford constructing three traps to hinder Zaroff's pursuit is a part of the rising action as it intensifies the conflict between the two characters and increases the suspense for the reader.Rate this question:
-
- 2.
An example of ______________ is in the following quotation: "I say automatically because I never went anywhere without a fishing rod. When I wasn't swimming laps to impress Sheila, I was back in our driveway practicing casts, and when I wasn't practicing casts, I was tying the line to Tosca, our Springer Spaniel, to test the reel's drag, and when I wasn't doing any of those things, I was fishing in the river for bass."
- A.
Theme
- B.
Third person omniscient point of view
- C.
First person point of view
- D.
Indirect characterization
- E.
Both C and D apply
Correct Answer
E. Both C and D applyExplanation
The given quotation provides insight into the character's thoughts, feelings, and actions, which is characteristic of first-person point of view. Additionally, the quotation indirectly reveals the character's interest in fishing, his dedication to practicing and testing his equipment, and his love for his dog, which is an example of indirect characterization. Therefore, both options C (first person point of view) and D (indirect characterization) apply to the given quotation.Rate this question:
-
- 3.
At the end of The Most Dangerous Game, perhaps Rainsford reassesses the way he feels about hunting. He may now realize what it is like to be hunted. He may now know how the jaguar feels. This change in his outlook is an example of _______________.
- A.
Flat character
- B.
Static character
- C.
Round character
- D.
Dynamic character
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. Dynamic characterExplanation
In the story, Rainsford undergoes a significant change in his perspective on hunting. Initially, he sees hunting as a thrilling and enjoyable activity. However, after being hunted by Zaroff, he experiences fear and realizes the brutality of being the prey. This change in his outlook and understanding of hunting demonstrates that he is a dynamic character, as he undergoes a transformation and evolves throughout the story.Rate this question:
-
- 4.
An example of ___________________ is this quotation from The Open Window by Saki: "Romance at short notice was her specialty."
- A.
Falling action
- B.
Implied theme
- C.
Conflict
- D.
Foreshadowing
- E.
Resolution
Correct Answer
E. ResolutionExplanation
The given quotation from The Open Window by Saki suggests that the character in the story is skilled at creating romantic situations quickly. This implies that the story might involve some sort of conflict or tension, which is resolved by the character's ability to create romance on short notice. Therefore, the correct answer is resolution.Rate this question:
-
- 5.
An example of _______________ is the following: " Rainsford's first impression was the man was singularly handsome; his second was that there was an original, almost bizarre quality about the general's face."
- A.
Indirect characterization because Rainsford thinks it.
- B.
Direct characterization because it is the narrator's direct description
- C.
Foreshadowing because it hints at bizarre happenings later on
- D.
Both B and C can apply
- E.
Both A and C can apply
Correct Answer
E. Both A and C can applyExplanation
The given passage can be considered as an example of indirect characterization because it reveals Rainsford's thoughts and impressions about the general's appearance. It can also be seen as foreshadowing because it hints at the possibility of strange or unusual events occurring later on in the story.Rate this question:
-
- 6.
A possible theme of The Most Dangerous Game might be "quick thinking and resourcefulness could mean the difference between life or death". Another might be that "a greater appreciation of someone's condition can be gained by actually experiencing what they experience." The theme is revealed through the story's telling as Rainsford is hunted by Zaroff. This kind of theme is called:
- A.
Stated theme
- B.
Implied theme
- C.
Nebulous theme
- D.
Generalized theme
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. Implied themeExplanation
The correct answer is implied theme. This is because the theme of "quick thinking and resourcefulness could mean the difference between life or death" and "a greater appreciation of someone's condition can be gained by actually experiencing what they experience" is not explicitly stated in the story but rather inferred through the events and actions of the characters.Rate this question:
-
- 7.
When Vera tells her aunt and uncle that Frampton was probably frightened by the spaniel because "he was once hunted into a cemetery somewhere on the banks of the Ganges by a pack of pariah dogs, and had to spend the night in a newly dug grave with the creatures snarling..." she presents the ____________________.
- A.
Story
- B.
Conflict
- C.
Falling action
- D.
Resolution
- E.
Setting
Correct Answer
C. Falling actionExplanation
In this question, Vera's statement about Frampton being frightened by the spaniel is part of the falling action. Falling action refers to the events that occur after the climax and lead to the resolution of the story. In this case, Vera's statement provides further information about Frampton's fear, which adds to the tension and builds towards the resolution of the story.Rate this question:
-
- 8.
A character traps men on a secluded island and engages in a three-day "game" where he tries to hunt them down. This would be an example of ___________.
- A.
Setting
- B.
Theme
- C.
Characterization
- D.
Plot
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. PlotExplanation
The given scenario describes the sequence of events and actions that unfold in the story, which is the plot. The plot typically involves a conflict or challenge that the characters face and how they attempt to resolve it. In this case, the character trapping men on an island and hunting them down is the central conflict, making it an example of plot.Rate this question:
-
- 9.
An example of ___________ is when Della laments that she has only $1.87 with which to buy Jim a present...what could she do with $1.87?
- A.
Rising action
- B.
Climax
- C.
Resolution
- D.
Falling action
- E.
Conflict
Correct Answer
E. ConflictExplanation
The given correct answer for this question is "conflict". In the example provided, Della laments that she only has $1.87 to buy Jim a present, which creates a conflict for her. The conflict arises from the fact that she wants to buy a meaningful gift for Jim but feels limited by her lack of funds. This conflict drives the narrative and sets the stage for the story's development.Rate this question:
-
- 10.
Climax is illustrated in The Bass, the River, and Sheila Mant when the narrator:
- A.
Polishes the canoe
- B.
Hooks the bass on the way to the fair
- C.
Gets in a big fight with Eric Caswell
- D.
Discusses modeling with Sheila
- E.
Cuts the fishing line and loses the bass
Correct Answer
E. Cuts the fishing line and loses the bassExplanation
In the story "The Bass, the River, and Sheila Mant," the climax is reached when the narrator cuts the fishing line and loses the bass. This is the most intense and pivotal moment in the story because it represents a significant sacrifice the narrator makes. He chooses Sheila's admiration over his love for fishing, symbolized by the loss of the prized bass. This action marks a turning point in the narrator's character development and sets the stage for the resolution of the story.Rate this question:
-
- 11.
"The old charts call it 'Ship Trap'," Whitney replied. "A suggestive name, isn't it? Sailors have a curious dread of the place." This quote is an example of ______________.
- A.
Conflict
- B.
Theme
- C.
Foreshadowing
- D.
Resolution
- E.
Plot
Correct Answer
C. ForeshadowingExplanation
This quote is an example of foreshadowing because it hints at something ominous or dangerous about the place called "Ship Trap." The fact that sailors have a "curious dread" of the place suggests that something bad or threatening may happen there, which creates anticipation and hints at future events in the story.Rate this question:
-
- 12.
"It seemed I would split in half with longings, split in half. Twenty yards ahead of us was the road, and once I pulled the canoe up on shore, the bass would be gone, irretrievably gone." This quote from The Bass, the River, and Sheila Mant is an example of ________________.
- A.
Direct characterization
- B.
Theme
- C.
Internal conflict
- D.
External conflict
- E.
Foreshadowing
Correct Answer
C. Internal conflictExplanation
This quote from The Bass, the River, and Sheila Mant demonstrates internal conflict. The narrator is torn between his desire to impress Sheila by catching the bass and his fear of losing the opportunity to be with her if he does. The phrase "split in half with longings" emphasizes the intense internal struggle he is experiencing. The mention of the road and the realization that the bass will be gone once he pulls the canoe up on shore further highlights the conflicting desires and the internal struggle the narrator is facing.Rate this question:
-
- 13.
"Della," he said, "let's put our Christmas presents away and keep 'em awhile. They're too nice to use just at present. I sold the watch to get the money to buy your combs." This quote is an example of __________________.
- A.
Stated theme
- B.
Implied theme
- C.
External conflict
- D.
Climax
- E.
Resolution
Correct Answer
D. ClimaxExplanation
This quote is an example of climax. The dialogue between the characters reveals a significant turning point in the story. The climax is reached when the husband confesses that he sold his watch to buy combs for his wife, which emphasizes the sacrifice and love between the couple.Rate this question:
-
- 14.
"as he forged along he saw to his great astonishment that all the lights were in one enormous building - a lofty structure with pointed towers plunging upward into the gloom." This quote from The Most Dangerous Game is an example of _______________.
- A.
Internal conflict
- B.
Implied theme
- C.
Setting
- D.
Direct characterization
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
C. SettingExplanation
This quote from The Most Dangerous Game describes the physical environment in which the protagonist finds himself. It establishes the location as a single large building with tall towers, creating a sense of grandeur and mystery. The setting plays a crucial role in setting the tone and atmosphere of the story, as it contributes to the feeling of isolation and danger that the protagonist experiences. Therefore, the correct answer is setting.Rate this question:
-
- 15.
When Framton Nuttel tries to explain his nervous condition to Mrs. Sappleton, he says, "The doctors agree in ordering me complete rest, an absence of mental excitement, and avoidance of anything in the nature of violent physical exercise...". This quote is an example of ______________________.
- A.
Direct characterization
- B.
Indirect characterization
- C.
Climax
- D.
Resolution
- E.
Setting
Correct Answer
B. Indirect characterizationExplanation
This quote is an example of indirect characterization because it reveals information about Framton Nuttel's character indirectly through his own words. It provides insight into his nervous condition and the prescribed treatment, suggesting that he is a person who experiences anxiety and requires rest and calm. This quote allows the reader to infer certain traits about Nuttel's character without explicitly stating them.Rate this question:
-
- 16.
The following from The Most Dangerous Game are all examples of foreshadowing EXCEPT:
- A.
Rainsford and Whitney discuss hunting on board the yacht
- B.
Rainsford finds empty cartridges and matted vegetation near the shore of the island
- C.
Rainsford tries to put distance between himself and Zaroff by creating a complicated trail to follow
- D.
Whenever Rainsford looked up from his plate at dinner that first night, he noticed Zaroff studying him, appraising his narrowly.
- E.
Rainsford swims to the island after falling overboard
Correct Answer
C. Rainsford tries to put distance between himself and Zaroff by creating a complicated trail to followExplanation
The answer is "Rainsford tries to put distance between himself and Zaroff by creating a complicated trail to follow" because this action does not serve as foreshadowing. Foreshadowing is a literary device used to hint at future events or outcomes. In the story, Rainsford creating a complicated trail is not a hint or indication of any future events. However, the other options mentioned in the question all serve as examples of foreshadowing.Rate this question:
-
- 17.
A stormy winter night on a narrow strip of forestland, wind howling, and wildlife fearfully stirring is an example of __________________.
- A.
Setting
- B.
Falling action
- C.
Rising action
- D.
Resolution
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. SettingExplanation
The given scenario describes the atmospheric conditions and environment of a stormy winter night on a narrow strip of forestland. This description sets the stage and creates the backdrop for the events that may unfold in a story. Therefore, the correct answer is "setting."Rate this question:
-
- 18.
"There would be other Sheila Mants in my life, other fish, and though I came close once or twice, it was these secret, hidden tuggings in the night that claimed me, and I never made the same mistake again." This quote from The Bass, the River, and Sheila Mant is an example of _______________.
- A.
Resolution
- B.
Falling action
- C.
Theme
- D.
Exposition
- E.
Both A and C could apply
Correct Answer
E. Both A and C could applyExplanation
The quote from "The Bass, the River, and Sheila Mant" suggests that the narrator has learned from his past mistakes and will not make them again. This demonstrates resolution, as the narrator has come to a decision or solution to his problem. It also reflects the theme of the story, which is about learning from one's experiences and growing as a person. Therefore, both A (resolution) and C (theme) could apply to this quote.Rate this question:
-
- 19.
We have read several stories that employ a twist in plot or a surprise ending. This twist in plot is called irony. All the stories EXCEPT _____________ employ irony.
- A.
The Gift of the Magi
- B.
The Open Window
- C.
Beware of the Dog
- D.
The Most Dangerous Game
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. The Most Dangerous GameExplanation
All the given options, except "The Most Dangerous Game," employ irony in their plot or have a surprise ending. The Gift of the Magi is a story where a couple sacrifices their most prized possessions to buy each other gifts, only to find out that their gifts are now useless. The Open Window is a story where a young girl tells a visitor a made-up story about her family, leading him to believe that he has seen ghosts. Beware of the Dog is a story where a pilot is injured during war and wakes up in a hospital, only to find out that he has been captured by the enemy. Therefore, the correct answer is The Most Dangerous Game, as it does not employ irony in its plot.Rate this question:
-
- 20.
"His hair was a vivid white; but his thick eyebrows and pointed military mustache were as black as the night from which Rainsford had come." This excerpt from The Most Dangerous Game:
- A.
Re-enforces and enhances Zaroffs contrasting nature of civility and barbarism
- B.
Shows Zaroff's insanity
- C.
Helps develop Zaroff's character
- D.
Is an example of characterization
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
E. All of the aboveExplanation
The given excerpt from "The Most Dangerous Game" serves multiple purposes in developing the character of Zaroff. Firstly, it re-enforces and enhances his contrasting nature of civility and barbarism by highlighting the stark contrast between his white hair and black eyebrows and mustache. Secondly, it shows Zaroff's insanity as his appearance is unconventional and goes against societal norms. Lastly, it helps develop Zaroff's character by providing visual imagery that adds depth and complexity to his personality. Therefore, the correct answer is "all of the above."Rate this question:
-
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
-
Current Version
-
Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Mar 25, 2009Quiz Created by
Frank Conroy
Back to top