"The Prelude: Stealing The Boat" By William Wordsworth

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  • 1/27 Questions

    The Prelude: Stealing the boat is written by William Wordsworth.

    • True
    • False
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About This Quiz

Explore William Wordsworth's 'The Prelude: Stealing the Boat' through a detailed quiz. Assess understanding of narrative form, structure, tone changes, and literary devices in this seminal Romantic poem, enhancing analytical skills relevant to English Literature studies.

"The Prelude: Stealing The Boat" By William Wordsworth - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    An important theme in The Prelude: Stealing the boat is that  humanity is part of nature and sometimes we can be made to feel very small and insignificant by the natural world.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The correct answer is true because in "The Prelude: Stealing the boat," the speaker explores the relationship between humanity and nature. The poem depicts moments where the speaker feels overwhelmed by the power and vastness of the natural world, highlighting the idea that humans can feel small and insignificant in comparison. This theme emphasizes the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, suggesting that humans are a part of the natural world and can be humbled by it.

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  • 3. 

    There is a turning point (volta) in the poem.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The presence of a turning point, or volta, in a poem indicates a shift or change in the tone, subject matter, or perspective. This shift often occurs between the octave and sestet in a Petrarchan sonnet or between the third and fourth quatrains in a Shakespearean sonnet. It adds depth and complexity to the poem, allowing the poet to present a new idea or reveal a different aspect of the subject. Therefore, the statement "There is a turning point (volta) in the poem" is true.

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  • 4. 

    The metaphor "an elfin pinnace" ( line 17) makes the boat and the scene seem magical and exciting.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The metaphor "an elfin pinnace" suggests that the boat is small and delicate like an elf, creating an image of enchantment and wonder. This description adds a sense of magic and excitement to the scene, as if the boat and the surroundings are part of a fantastical world.

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  • 5. 

    SoundThe Prelude is conversational, as if Wordsworth is sat next to us, telling us the story himself. The poet uses "and"s throughout to give the verse a breathless quality. 

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The given explanation suggests that the correct answer is true because the poet's use of "and"s throughout the poem creates a conversational and breathless quality, making it feel like Wordsworth is personally telling the story to the reader.

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  • 6. 

    Attitudes and ideasWordsworth does not view humanity as having authority over nature. If anything, it's the other way round as we can see from his description of the huge mountain. Wordsworth also realises that once an event has happened, that doesn't mean it's over; the effect stayed with him for days afterwards.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The explanation for the given correct answer is that Wordsworth's view of humanity's authority over nature is not positive. He does not believe that humans have control or dominion over nature. Instead, he suggests that nature has a power and influence over humans. This is evident in his description of the huge mountain, which implies the overwhelming and awe-inspiring nature of the natural world. Additionally, Wordsworth's recognition that the effect of a particular event stayed with him for days afterwards suggests that he understands the lasting impact and significance of nature on human experiences. Therefore, the statement that Wordsworth does not view humanity as having authority over nature is true.

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  • 7. 

    The Prelude: Stealing the Boat is written in blank verse - unrhyming lines each containing five beats or feet. This verse form (much used by Shakespeare) follows the natural patterns of spoken English, so we feel that the poets are talking to us.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The explanation for the given correct answer is that the statement accurately describes the form of The Prelude: Stealing the Boat. Blank verse is a form of poetry that consists of unrhymed lines with five beats or feet. This form, commonly used by Shakespeare, follows the natural patterns of spoken English, creating a conversational tone that makes readers feel like the poets are directly addressing them. Therefore, the statement is true.

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  • 8. 

    There is a shift from confidence to fear.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The statement suggests that there has been a change in people's emotions from feeling confident to feeling fearful. This indicates a shift in mindset or perception, possibly due to a change in circumstances or events.

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  • 9. 

    Epics are very long pieces of writing that usually deal with exciting, action-packed heroic events like wars or explorations. Although many of the events Wordsworth writes about are 'ordinary' they are given an epic quality, to fully describe the impact they had on his life. (Reference: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/english_literature/poetryplace/thepreluderev3.shtml)

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The explanation for the given correct answer is that the statement accurately reflects the information provided in the reference. The reference states that although many of the events Wordsworth writes about are 'ordinary,' they are given an epic quality to fully describe the impact they had on his life. Therefore, it can be inferred that Wordsworth's writing contains elements of epics, making the statement true.

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  • 10. 

    The Prelude can be viewed as an epic poem, in length at least.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The statement suggests that The Prelude can be considered an epic poem due to its length. Epic poems are typically long narrative poems that recount the adventures and heroic deeds of a protagonist. The Prelude, written by William Wordsworth, is an autobiographical poem that explores the poet's development and growth. It spans multiple books and is known for its extensive length, which aligns with the characteristics of an epic poem. Therefore, the answer is true.

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  • 11. 

    StructureThere are no stanzas: the writing is continuous though there is plenty of punctuation to help us read it. This extract is a complete story in itself. It starts with "One summer evening..." and finishes with the effects on his mind of the boat trip: "a trouble to my dreams". (http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/english_literature/poetryplace/thepreluderev4.shtml)

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The given explanation states that the structure of the text does not have any stanzas and is continuous, with punctuation helping the reader to understand it. It also mentions that the extract is a complete story in itself, starting with "One summer evening" and ending with the effects on the narrator's mind. Therefore, the statement that the structure has no stanzas and is continuous is true.

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  • 12. 

    The Prelude: Stealing the Boat is extract of 44 lines written in blank verse.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The given statement is true. The Prelude: Stealing the Boat is indeed an extract of 44 lines written in blank verse. Blank verse is a type of poetry that does not rhyme but follows a specific meter, usually iambic pentameter. In this extract, the poet describes the act of stealing a boat, using the blank verse form to convey the emotions and actions of the narrator.

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  • 13. 

    Which of the following is an appropriate description of the change in the speaker in The Prelude: Stealing the Boat?

    • The poem shows the spiritual growth of the poet, how he comes to terms with who he is, and his place in nature and the world.

    • The poem shows the dramatic change in the poet, how he becomes a more confident person.

    Correct Answer
    A. The poem shows the spiritual growth of the poet, how he comes to terms with who he is, and his place in nature and the world.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is that the poem shows the spiritual growth of the poet, how he comes to terms with who he is, and his place in nature and the world. This is supported by the description of the poem as showing the speaker's journey of self-discovery and understanding of his place in the larger world. It implies a deeper transformation and a greater understanding of the speaker's identity and connection to nature. The other option, which suggests a more confident persona, does not capture the same level of introspection and self-realization as the correct answer.

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  • 14. 

    In lines 25-29 of  The Prelude: Stealing the Boat, the mountain is personified to create a ​scary, ugly image of nature that contrasts with the earlier images of magic and serenity.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    In lines 25-29 of The Prelude: Stealing the Boat, the poet personifies the mountain to create a scary and ugly image of nature. This contrast is evident when comparing it to the earlier images of magic and serenity. By personifying the mountain, the poet gives it human-like characteristics, making it seem intimidating and unattractive. This personification helps to emphasize the shift in tone and atmosphere in the poem, highlighting the darker and more ominous aspects of nature.

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  • 15. 

    Form: The Prelude: Stealing the Boat is a _______________. This makes the poem sound personal and describes a turning point in the poet's life.

    • Second- person narrative

    • First-person narrative

    • Third-person narrative

    • Written in iambic pentameter

    Correct Answer
    A. First-person narrative
    Explanation
    The correct answer is first-person narrative. This means that the poem is told from the perspective of the poet, using "I" and "me" to describe their own experiences and thoughts. This personal perspective allows the reader to connect with the poet's emotions and understand the significance of the turning point in their life.

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  • 16. 

    The poet admits to being afraid of nature.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The poet admits to being afraid of nature. This means that the poet acknowledges and confesses to having a fear or apprehension towards the natural world. The word "admits" suggests that the poet is open and honest about this fear, implying that it is a genuine feeling. Therefore, the statement "The poet admits to being afraid of nature" is true.

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  • 17. 

    Which of the following imagery could be associated with gothic (sinister or grotesque) tales, nightmares or even horror?

    • There hung a darkness, call it solitude Or blank desertion. No familiar shapes Remained, no pleasant images of trees, Of sea or sky, no colours of green fields;

    • Small circles glittering idly in the moon, Until they melted all into one track Of sparkling light.

    • One summer evening (led by her) I found A little boat tied to a willow tree Within a rocky cave, its usual home Straight I unloosed her chain

    Correct Answer
    A. There hung a darkness, call it solitude Or blank desertion. No familiar shapes Remained, no pleasant images of trees, Of sea or sky, no colours of green fields;
    Explanation
    The given imagery of darkness, solitude, blank desertion, and the absence of familiar shapes, pleasant images, and colors of nature evokes a sense of gloom, mystery, and foreboding. This description aligns with the atmosphere typically associated with gothic tales, nightmares, and horror, as it creates an eerie and sinister mood. The absence of familiar and comforting elements adds to the sense of unease and contributes to the gothic theme.

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  • 18. 

    Structure: When the mountain appears in The Prelude: Stealing the Boat, there is a distinct change in tone. The tone becomes _____________ and ___________

    • Happier and more casual

    • Light and carefree

    • Darker and more fearful

    • More fearful and more confident

    Correct Answer
    A. Darker and more fearful
    Explanation
    When the mountain appears in The Prelude: Stealing the Boat, there is a distinct change in tone. The tone becomes darker and more fearful. This is evident as the author's language and imagery become more ominous and foreboding. The mention of the mountain creates a sense of danger and uncertainty, which contributes to the overall shift in tone. The use of darker and more fearful tone suggests a shift towards a more serious and tense atmosphere in the poem.

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  • 19. 

    Which of the following is an oxymoron that hints at the speaker's guilt in The Prelude: Stealing the Boat?

    • Its usual home ( l. 3)

    • Act of stealth (l. 5)

    • Troubled pleasure ( l. 6)

    • Utmost boundary

    Correct Answer
    A. Troubled pleasure ( l. 6)
    Explanation
    In The Prelude: Stealing the Boat, the phrase "troubled pleasure" is an oxymoron that hints at the speaker's guilt. Pleasure typically connotes a positive and enjoyable feeling, while troubled suggests a sense of unease or distress. By combining these contrasting words, the phrase suggests that the speaker finds some enjoyment in their actions but also feels conflicted or troubled by their guilt. This oxymoron effectively captures the complex emotions and conflicting motivations of the speaker in the poem.

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  • 20. 

    Which of the following in The Prelude: Stealing the Boat, suggests the speaker knows that he is doing something wrong and gives us the first clue that something "is not quite right"?

    • Led by her (l. 1)

    • Its usual home ( l. 3)

    • Straight I loosed her ( l. 4)

    • An act of stealth

    Correct Answer
    A. An act of stealth
    Explanation
    The phrase "an act of stealth" suggests that the speaker knows he is doing something wrong and gives the first clue that something is not quite right. The word "stealth" implies secrecy and sneakiness, indicating that the speaker is aware that his actions are not honest or open. This suggests that there may be consequences or moral implications to his actions, further reinforcing the idea that something is not right.

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  • 21. 

    Form: The use of _____________ _____________ makes the poem sound serious and important.

    • Rhyming couplets

    • Alliteration and assonance

    • Blank verse

    • Simile and metaphor

    Correct Answer
    A. Blank verse
    Explanation
    Blank verse is a form of poetry that does not have a regular rhyme scheme or meter. Instead, it follows a pattern of unrhymed iambic pentameter, which consists of lines with five pairs of unstressed and stressed syllables. This form of verse creates a natural and conversational tone, allowing the poet to focus on the content and message of the poem rather than adhering to strict rhyme or rhythm. The absence of rhyme gives the poem a more serious and important feel, as it allows for a more flexible and nuanced expression of ideas.

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  • 22. 

    Which of the following lines from The Prelude: Stealing the Boat,  present nature as a powerful, conscious being that can influence our lives?

    • But huge and mighty forms, that do not live Like living men, moved slowly through the mind By day and were a trouble to my dreams (l. 42-44)

    • That spectacle, for many days, my brain Worked with a dim and undetermined sense Of unknown modes of being; o'er my thoughts There hung a darkness, call it solitude Or blank desertion. No familiar shapes (l. 35-39)

    • Option 3

    • Option 4

    Correct Answer
    A. But huge and mighty forms, that do not live Like living men, moved slowly through the mind By day and were a trouble to my dreams (l. 42-44)
    Explanation
    The correct answer describes nature as "huge and mighty forms" that have an impact on the speaker's mind and dreams. This suggests that nature is a powerful force that can influence our lives.

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  • 23. 

    Which of the following lines from The Prelude: Stealing the Boat,  makes the narrator sound confident - even a bit arrogant?

    • The horizon's utmost boundary, far above was nothing but the stars and the grey sky. (L.15-16)

    • I dipped my oars into the silent lake, And, as I rose upon the stroke, my boat Went heaving through the water like a swan

    • But now, like one who rows, Proud of his skill, To reach a chosen point With an unswerving line, I fixed my view Upon the summit of a craggy ridge

    Correct Answer
    A. But now, like one who rows, Proud of his skill, To reach a chosen point With an unswerving line, I fixed my view Upon the summit of a craggy ridge
    Explanation
    The answer choice "But now, like one who rows, Proud of his skill, To reach a chosen point With an unswerving line, I fixed my view Upon the summit of a craggy ridge" makes the narrator sound confident and even a bit arrogant because it describes the narrator's determination and focus on reaching a specific goal. The use of the word "proud" suggests that the narrator believes in their own abilities and is confident in their skills. Additionally, the imagery of fixing their view upon the summit of a craggy ridge conveys a sense of superiority and ambition.

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  • 24. 

    Which figure of speach is used in the following lines from The Prelude: Stealing the Boat?...a huge peak, black and huge,As if with voluntary power instinct,Upreared its head...For so it seemed, with purpose of its ownAnd measured motion like a living thing,Strode after me.

    • Simile

    • Metaphor

    • Personification

    • Hyperbole

    Correct Answer
    A. Personification
    Explanation
    In the given lines from "The Prelude: Stealing the Boat," the figure of speech used is personification. This is evident in the description of the peak as "Upreared its head" and having "purpose of its own" and "measured motion like a living thing." By attributing human qualities and actions to the peak, the poet is personifying it, giving it a sense of life and intention.

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  • 25. 

    Structure: In the first section of the extract, The Prelude: Stealing the Boat, the tone is ____________ and __________.

    • Serious and carefree

    • Carefree and ominous

    • Dark and fearful

    • Light and carefree

    Correct Answer
    A. Light and carefree
    Explanation
    In the first section of the extract, "The Prelude: Stealing the Boat," the tone is described as light and carefree. This suggests that the atmosphere or mood of the passage is characterized by a sense of ease, playfulness, and lack of worry. The language used and the events described in the extract likely convey a sense of joy, freedom, and lightheartedness, creating a carefree tone.

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  • 26. 

    Which of the following lines from The Prelude: Stealing the Boat suggest that the narrator does not understand what he has seen and is struggling to describe the effect nature had on him when he encountered the mountain?

    • ...a huge peak, black and huge, As if with voluntary power instinct, Upreared its head... For so it seemed, with purpose of its own And measured motion like a living thing, Strode after me.

    • That spectacle, for many days, my brain Worked with a dim and undetermined sense Of unknown modes of being; o'er my thoughts There hung a darkness, call it solitude Or blank desertion. No familiar shapes (l. 35-39)

    • She was an elfin pinnace; lustily I dipped my oars into the silent lake, And, as I rose upon the stroke, my boat Went heaving through the water like a swan;

    • Back to the covert of the willow tree; There in her mooring-place I left my bark, - And through the meadows homeward went, in grave And serious mood; but after I had seen

    Correct Answer
    A. That spectacle, for many days, my brain Worked with a dim and undetermined sense Of unknown modes of being; o'er my thoughts There hung a darkness, call it solitude Or blank desertion. No familiar shapes (l. 35-39)
    Explanation
    The given lines suggest that the narrator does not understand what he has seen and is struggling to describe the effect nature had on him when he encountered the mountain. The narrator's brain is working with a dim and undetermined sense, indicating confusion and uncertainty. The darkness that hangs over the narrator's thoughts represents a lack of clarity and familiarity. This suggests that the experience has left the narrator struggling to comprehend and articulate the impact of nature on him.

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  • 27. 

    The mountain is personified In the lines below. This creates a beautiful image that contrasts with the earlier ugly images of the boat as "an elfin pinnace" ( line 17)....a huge peak, black and huge,As if with voluntary power instinct,Upreared its head...For so it seemed, with purpose of its ownAnd measured motion like a living thing,Strode after me. 

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    The metaphor "an elfin pinnace" ( line 17) makes the boat and the scene seem magical and exciting.

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  • Mar 22, 2023
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