British Literature II: Final Exam
A quiz based on older identification questions in British Literature II. This is for the final exam (not the mid term).
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Here lies, to each her parents’ ruth, Mary, the daughter of their youth; Yet all heaven’s gifts being heaven’s due, it makes the father less to rue.
- A.
Mac Flecknoe
- B.
To my book
- C.
On my first daugther
- D.
Easter Wings
Correct Answer
C. On my first daugtherExplanation
The given excerpt is a quatrain from the poem "On my first daughter" by Ben Jonson. The speaker is mourning the death of his daughter, Mary, who was the product of their parents' youth. The phrase "all heaven's gifts being heaven's due" suggests that Mary was a gift from heaven, and her departure from this world should not cause the father to regret or grieve. The correct answer, "On my first daughter," refers to the title of the poem itself.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Some ne’er advance a judgement of their own, But catch the spreading notion of town; They reason and conclude by precedent, And own stale nonsense which the ne’er invent. Some judge of authors’ names, not works, and then Nor praise nor blame the writings, but the men.
- A.
Gulliver's Travels
- B.
Epistle from Mrs. Young to her Husband
- C.
The rape of the lock
- D.
An essay on criticism
Correct Answer
D. An essay on criticism -
- 3.
The great contentions of criticism is to find the faults of the moderns and the beauties of the ancients. While an author is yet living we estimate his powers by his worst performance; and when he his dead we rate them by his best. To works, however, of which the excellence is not absolute and definite, but gradual and comparative; to works not raised upon principles demonstrative and scientific, but appealing wholly to observation and experience, no other test can be applied than length of duration and continuance of esteem.
- A.
An essay on man
- B.
Gulliver's Travels
- C.
A dictionary of the English language
- D.
Preface to Shakespeare
Correct Answer
D. Preface to ShakespeareExplanation
The given passage suggests that the measure of an author's powers and the worth of their works can only be truly determined over time. While an author is alive, their worst performance is used to judge their abilities. However, once they are dead, their best work becomes the standard by which they are evaluated. This explanation aligns with the Preface to Shakespeare, as it is a critical analysis of Shakespeare's works and highlights the enduring value and esteem that his plays have garnered over time.Rate this question:
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- 4.
GOLBASTO MOMAREN EVLAME GURDILO SHEFIN MULLY ULLY GUE, most mighty emperor of Lilliput, delight and terror of the universe, whose dominions extend five thousand blustrugs (about twelve miles in circumference) to the extremities of the globe; Monarch of all Monarchs, taller than the sons of men; whose feet press down to the centre, and whose head strikes against the sun; at whose nod the princes of the earth shake their knees; pleasant as the spring, comfortable as the summer, fruitful as autumn, dreadful as winter. His most sublime Majesty proposeth to the Man-Mountain, lately arrived at our celestial dominions, the following articles, which by solemn oath he shall be obliged to perform.
- A.
Gulliver's Travels
- B.
The Rape of the Lock
- C.
Ode to Evening
- D.
The Deserted Village
Correct Answer
A. Gulliver's Travels -
- 5.
But when to mischief mortals bend their will, How soon they find instruments of ill! Just then, Clarissa drew with tempting grace A two-edged weapon from her shining case: So ladies in romance assist their knight Present the spear, and arm him for the fight.
- A.
Volpone
- B.
The rape of the lock
- C.
An essay on man
- D.
The pulley
Correct Answer
B. The rape of the lock -
- 6.
“Yet let him keep the rest, But keep them with repining restlessness: Let him be rich and weary, that at least, If goodness lead him not, yet weariness May toss him to my breast”
- A.
Pamphilia to Amphilanthus
- B.
The Life of Samuel Johnson
- C.
The Pulley
- D.
To the Virgins, to make much of time
Correct Answer
C. The PulleyExplanation
The correct answer is "The Pulley." The given lines are from the poem "The Pulley" by George Herbert. In this poem, the speaker suggests that God, who has given mankind various gifts, intentionally withholds one gift: rest. The speaker believes that if humans were given complete contentment, they would not seek God or rely on Him. Instead, the speaker suggests that weariness and restlessness can lead individuals to turn to God and find solace in Him. Thus, the answer "The Pulley" aligns with the theme and message conveyed in the given lines.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Gather ye rosebuds while ye may, Old time is still a-flying; And this same flower that smiles today, Tomorrow will be dying.
- A.
To the virgins, to make much of time
- B.
To his coy mistress
- C.
An essay on criticism
- D.
Volpone
Correct Answer
A. To the virgins, to make much of timeExplanation
This answer is correct because the given lines "Gather ye rosebuds while ye may, Old time is still a-flying; And this same flower that smiles today, Tomorrow will be dying" are from the poem "To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time" by Robert Herrick. The poem encourages young women to seize the opportunity and enjoy life while they are still young and beautiful, as time is passing quickly and life is short-lived.Rate this question:
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- 8.
I grant this food will be somewhat dear, and therefore very proper for landlords, who, as they have already devoured most of the parents, seem to have the best title to the children.
- A.
Ode to Evening
- B.
The Castaway
- C.
Gulliver's Travels
- D.
A Modest Proposal
Correct Answer
D. A Modest ProposalExplanation
The given passage is a satirical statement from "A Modest Proposal" by Jonathan Swift. In this essay, Swift suggests a shocking solution to poverty in Ireland by proposing that the poor should sell their children as food to the wealthy. The passage highlights the irony and absurdity of the proposal by stating that since landlords have already exploited the parents, they have the best claim to the children. This passage reflects the dark humor and social commentary present in "A Modest Proposal."Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which way I fly is Hell; myself am Hell; And in the lowest deep a lower deep Still threat’ning to devour me opens wide, To which the Hell I suffer seems a Heav’n.
- A.
The Fellowship of the Ring
- B.
Paradise Lost
- C.
The Journal and Letters
- D.
Volpone
Correct Answer
B. Paradise LostExplanation
The given excerpt is a quote from the poem "Paradise Lost" by John Milton. In this quote, the speaker is expressing their inner torment and suffering, comparing their own state to Hell. They feel trapped in a never-ending cycle of misery, with even deeper levels of despair threatening to consume them. This quote showcases the theme of spiritual and psychological turmoil that is explored throughout "Paradise Lost".Rate this question:
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- 10.
So X swore, nor should his vow be vain, That he till death true dullness would maintain; And in his father's right, and realm's defence, Ne'er to have peace with wit, nor truce with sense.
- A.
On my first son
- B.
Mac Flecknoe
- C.
Easter Wings
- D.
Redemption
Correct Answer
B. Mac FlecknoeExplanation
The correct answer is "Mac Flecknoe". The given excerpt is a couplet from the poem "Mac Flecknoe" by John Dryden. The poem is a satirical piece that mocks the poet Thomas Shadwell, who is portrayed as the heir to the throne of dullness. The line suggests that X (referring to Shadwell) made a vow to maintain and defend his father's (referring to Flecknoe) legacy of dullness. The poem is known for its use of wit and clever wordplay to criticize Shadwell's lack of poetic skill.Rate this question:
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- 11.
My wife and family received me with great surprise and joy, because they concluded me certainly dead; but I must freely confess the sight of them filled me only with hatred, disgust, and contempt; and the more, by reflecting on the near alliance I had to them. ...And when I began to consider that, by copulating with one of the Yahoo species I had become a parent of more, it struck me with the utmost shame, confusion, and horror.
- A.
Areopagitica
- B.
On my first son
- C.
An essay on man
- D.
Gulliver's Travels
Correct Answer
D. Gulliver's TravelsExplanation
The given passage mentions the protagonist's negative emotions towards his wife and family, as well as his shame and horror at being a parent to offspring of the Yahoo species. This aligns with the themes and events in Jonathan Swift's novel "Gulliver's Travels," where the protagonist, Lemuel Gulliver, encounters various strange and fantastical societies during his voyages. In the novel, Gulliver's interactions with different species and societies often lead to disillusionment and a sense of alienation from his own kind, which is reflected in the passage.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Know then thyself, presume God not to scan. The proper study of mankind is man.
- A.
Volpone
- B.
Mac Flecknoe
- C.
An essay on man
- D.
The Rape of the Lock
Correct Answer
C. An essay on manExplanation
The given correct answer is "An essay on man". This is because the quote "Know then thyself, presume God not to scan. The proper study of mankind is man" is from Alexander Pope's poem "An Essay on Man". In this poem, Pope explores the nature of humanity and the place of humans in the universe, emphasizing the importance of self-knowledge and understanding one's own nature.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Had we but world enough, and time, this coyness, lady, were no crime. We would sit down, and think which way To walk, and pass our long love’s day.
- A.
The Kite Runner
- B.
To his coy mistress
- C.
The Journal and Letters
- D.
On my first son
Correct Answer
B. To his coy mistressExplanation
The given answer "To his coy mistress" is correct because the lines "Had we but world enough, and time, this coyness, lady, were no crime." are from the poem "To his coy mistress" by Andrew Marvell. The poem is a persuasive argument from the speaker to his mistress, urging her to seize the moment and engage in a physical relationship with him before time runs out. The speaker uses the concept of limited time to convince the mistress that her coyness is unnecessary and that they should make the most of the present.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The boast of heraldry, the pomp of power, And all that beauty, all that wealth e'er gave, Awaits alike th' inevitable hour:- The paths of glory lead but to the grave.
- A.
Elegy written in a country church-yard
- B.
Paradise Lost
- C.
An essay on dramatic poesy
- D.
An essay on criticism
Correct Answer
A. Elegy written in a country church-yardExplanation
The given correct answer is "Elegy written in a country church-yard". This is because the lines provided in the question are from the poem "Elegy written in a country church-yard" by Thomas Gray. The poem reflects on the fleeting nature of life, the inevitability of death, and the ultimate equality of all individuals in death. Therefore, the reference to "the paths of glory lead but to the grave" aligns with the themes and tone of Gray's elegy.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Where there is much desire to learn, there of necessity will be much arguing, much writing, many opinions; for opinion in good men is but knowledge in the making. Under these fantastic terrors of sect and schism, we wrong the earnest and zealous thirst after knowledge and understanding which God hath stirr'd up in this city.
- A.
Redemption
- B.
Easter Wings
- C.
Paradise Lost
- D.
Areopagitica
Correct Answer
D. AreopagiticaExplanation
The given passage talks about the importance of learning and the resulting arguments, writing, and opinions that come with it. It also mentions the negative effects of sects and schisms on the thirst for knowledge and understanding. "Areopagitica" is a famous speech by John Milton in which he defends the freedom of speech and expression, arguing against censorship. This aligns with the theme of the passage, making "Areopagitica" the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A little learning is a dang'rous thing; Drink deep, or taste not the Pierian spring: There shallow draughts intoxicate the brain, And drinking largely sobers us again.
- A.
An essay on man
- B.
An essay on criticism
- C.
Volpone
- D.
On my first daughter
Correct Answer
B. An essay on criticismExplanation
The given excerpt is from "An Essay on Criticism" by Alexander Pope. This poem discusses the dangers of having limited knowledge or understanding in any subject. The lines emphasize the importance of acquiring deep knowledge rather than superficial understanding. The reference to the "Pierian spring" alludes to Greek mythology, where the spring was believed to be the source of knowledge and inspiration for poets. The correct answer is "An Essay on Criticism" because this work specifically addresses the topic of criticism and the dangers of superficial learning.Rate this question:
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- 17.
I straight returned, and knowing His great birth, Sought Him accordingly in great resorts-- In cities, theatres, gardens, parks, and courts: At length I heard a ragged noise and mirth Of thieves and murderers; there I Him espied, Who straight, "Your suit is granted," said, and died.
- A.
Gulliver's Travels
- B.
Rape of the Lock
- C.
Redemption
- D.
The Castaway
Correct Answer
C. RedemptionExplanation
The given passage describes the speaker's search for someone and their eventual encounter with thieves and murderers. The speaker finds the person they were looking for, who grants their request and then dies. This suggests that the person being sought after is a figure of redemption, as they are able to grant the speaker's request before their death. The theme of redemption is commonly found in literature and can involve the idea of finding salvation or forgiveness.Rate this question:
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- 18.
I had, the evening before, drunk plentifully of a most delicious wine … [and] The heat I had contracted by coming very near the flames, and by labouring to quench them, made the wine begin to operate by urine; which I voided in such a quantity, and applied so well to the proper places, that in three minutes the fire was wholly extinguished … [I thought] I had done a very eminent piece of service.
- A.
Gulliver's Travels
- B.
Volpone
- C.
The Preface to Shakespeare
- D.
Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard
Correct Answer
A. Gulliver's TravelsExplanation
The given passage is a quote from "Gulliver's Travels" by Jonathan Swift. The protagonist, Gulliver, is describing how he used his urine to extinguish a fire after drinking wine the night before. This passage showcases the satirical and fantastical elements of the novel, as Gulliver believes he has performed a heroic act by using his bodily fluids to put out a fire. "Gulliver's Travels" is a famous satirical novel that critiques various aspects of society and human nature.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Too, too severely laws of honor bind The weak submissive sex of womankind. If sighs have gained or force compelled our hand, Deceived by art, or urged by stern command, Whatever motive binds the fatal tie, The judging world expects our constancy.
- A.
Easter Wings
- B.
The diary
- C.
An essay on criticism
- D.
Epistle from Mrs. Yonge to her Husband
Correct Answer
D. Epistle from Mrs. Yonge to her Husband -
- 20.
Their dread Commander. He, above the rest In shape and gesture proudly eminent, Stood like a tow'r; his form had yet not lost All her original brightness.
- A.
An essay of dramatic poesy
- B.
Paradise Lost
- C.
To his coy mistress
- D.
The journal and letters
Correct Answer
B. Paradise LostExplanation
The given correct answer is "Paradise Lost." The explanation for this answer is not available.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Now air is hushed, save where the weak-ey'd bat With short shrill shriek flits by on leathern wing, Or where the beetle winds His small but sullen horn As oft he rises 'midst the twilight path
- A.
Easter Wings
- B.
The pulley
- C.
Ode to evening
- D.
An essay on man
Correct Answer
C. Ode to eveningExplanation
"Ode to Evening" is the correct answer because the given lines describe a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, which is often associated with the evening. The mention of the bat flying silently and the beetle making a small sound in the twilight path further reinforces the idea of the evening setting. Therefore, "Ode to Evening" is the most fitting poem among the options provided.Rate this question:
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- 22.
When, snatched from all effectual aid, We perished, each alone: But I beneath a rougher sea, And whelmed in deeper gulfs than he
- A.
The castaway
- B.
Easter Wings
- C.
Gulliver's Travels
- D.
Epistle from Mrs. Young to her Husband
Correct Answer
A. The castawayExplanation
The given lines are from the poem "The castaway." The speaker is describing a situation where they were abandoned and left to perish alone. The phrase "beneath a rougher sea, And whelmed in deeper gulfs than he" suggests that the speaker's experience was even more difficult and challenging than someone else's. The poem explores themes of isolation, despair, and the harsh realities of life.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The truth is, that the spectators are always in their senses, and know, from the first act to the last, that the stage is only a stage, and that the players are only players ... and where is the absurdity of allowing that space to represent first Athens, and then Sicily, which was always known to be neither Sicily nor Athens, but a modern theatre?
- A.
An essay on criticism
- B.
Preface to Shakespeare
- C.
Gulliver's Travels
- D.
Rape of the lock
Correct Answer
B. Preface to ShakespeareExplanation
The given correct answer is "Preface to Shakespeare" because the passage discusses the idea that the stage is merely a representation and the players are just actors. This concept aligns with the preface to Shakespeare, where the author discusses the art of theater and the illusion it creates. The passage's mention of the stage representing different locations also connects to the idea of the stage as a versatile space, which is a topic explored in the preface.Rate this question:
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- 24.
I believe no gentleman would repine to give ten shillings for the carcass of a good fat child, which, as I have said, will make four dishes of excellent nutritive meat, when he hath only some particular friend or his own family to dine with him.
- A.
Volpone
- B.
The pulley
- C.
An essay on man
- D.
A modest proposal
Correct Answer
D. A modest proposalExplanation
"A Modest Proposal" is the correct answer because the given passage suggests that a gentleman would not hesitate to pay for the carcass of a fat child in order to have a good meal. This aligns with the satirical nature of Jonathan Swift's essay, "A Modest Proposal," in which he proposes that the poor Irish population should sell their children as food to the wealthy English. The passage's mention of making four dishes of meat from a child's carcass and dining with only a few people further supports this satirical proposal.Rate this question:
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- 25.
That age is best which is the first, When youth and blood are warmer; But being spent, the worse, and worst Times still succeed the former
- A.
Ode to Evening
- B.
To the virgins, to make much of time
- C.
Easter Wings
- D.
Volpone
Correct Answer
B. To the virgins, to make much of timeExplanation
The given answer "To the virgins, to make much of time" is the correct answer because it directly corresponds to the excerpt from the poem "Ode to Evening" by Robert Herrick. The quote emphasizes the importance of youth and encourages young people to seize the moment and make the most of their time while they are still young and full of energy.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Some of us had been permitted to stay on the deck for the fresh air; but now that the whole ship’s cargo were confined together, it became absolutely pestilential. The closeness of the place and the heat of the climate, added to the number in the ship, which was so crowded that each had scarcely room to turn himself, almost suffocated us.
- A.
The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano
- B.
Rape of the lock
- C.
To his coy mistress
- D.
The Life of Samuel Johnson
Correct Answer
A. The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah EquianoExplanation
The given correct answer is "The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano" because the passage describes the conditions on a ship where the cargo and people were confined together, leading to a pestilential atmosphere. This is consistent with Equiano's narrative, as he was a former slave who wrote about his experiences on slave ships. The passage's description of the ship being crowded and suffocating aligns with Equiano's account of the inhumane conditions endured by enslaved Africans during the Middle Passage.Rate this question:
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- 27.
He was perfectly astonished with the historical account I gave him of our affairs during the last century, protesting it was only an heap of conspiracies, rebellions, murders, massacres, revolutions, banishments, the very worst effects that avarice, faction, hypocrisy, perfidiousness, cruelty, rage, madness, hatred, envy, lust, malice, or ambition could produce.
- A.
The Journal and Letters
- B.
Gulliver's Travels
- C.
Paradise Lost
- D.
The Castaway
Correct Answer
B. Gulliver's TravelsExplanation
The given passage describes a historical account that the speaker gave to someone, which the person found astonishing. The passage mentions various negative events and actions such as conspiracies, rebellions, murders, massacres, revolutions, banishments, and more. This description aligns with the satirical novel "Gulliver's Travels" by Jonathan Swift, which uses fantastical journeys to critique various aspects of society, including politics, human nature, and history. The novel often presents exaggerated and absurd situations to convey its social commentary, making it a likely fit for the given passage.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Good morning to the day, and, next my gold! Open the shrine that I may see my saint.
- A.
Ode to Evening
- B.
The Rape of the Lock
- C.
Gulliver's Travels
- D.
Volpone
Correct Answer
D. VolponeExplanation
Volpone is a play written by Ben Jonson, a prominent English playwright of the 17th century. The given lines, "Good morning to the day, and, next my gold! Open the shrine that I may see my saint," do not match any specific works mentioned in the options except for Volpone. Therefore, it can be inferred that the correct answer is Volpone.Rate this question:
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- 29.
True wit is Nature to advantage dressed, What oft was thought, but ne’er so well expressed. Something whose truth convinced at sight we find, That gives us back the image of our mind.
- A.
On my first daughter
- B.
An essay on criticism
- C.
An essay on man
- D.
On my first son
Correct Answer
B. An essay on criticismExplanation
This answer is correct because the given lines are from Alexander Pope's poem "An Essay on Criticism." The lines highlight the importance of wit in writing and how it can effectively convey thoughts and ideas. The poem discusses the art of criticism and the role of good judgment in evaluating literary works. "On my first daughter," "An essay on man," and "On my first son" are not relevant to the given lines and do not match the context or theme.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Said I. “I do indeed come from Scotland, but I cannot help it.” … I meant this as light pleasantry to soothe and conciliate him … but however that might be, this speech was somewhat unlucky, for with that quickness of wit for which he was so remarkable, he seized the expression “come from Scotland,” [and] retorted, “That, Sir, I find, is what a very great many of your countrymen cannot help.”
- A.
The Life of Samuel Johnson
- B.
The Diary
- C.
An essay on criticism
- D.
A Dictionary of the English Language
Correct Answer
A. The Life of Samuel JohnsonExplanation
The given correct answer is "The Life of Samuel Johnson" because the passage is referring to a conversation between two individuals, one of whom is Samuel Johnson. The passage mentions his wit and quickness, which are characteristics often associated with Johnson. Therefore, it can be inferred that the passage is from a work that discusses the life and experiences of Samuel Johnson.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Now once again by all concurrence of signs, and by the general instinct of holy and devout men, as they daily and solemnly express their thoughts, God is decreeing to begin some new and great period in his church, even to the reforming of the Reformation itself; what does he then but reveal himself to his servants, and as his manner is, first to his Englishmen?
- A.
The Castaway
- B.
The Life of Samuel Johnson
- C.
Areopagitica
- D.
On my first son
Correct Answer
C. Areopagitica -
- 32.
So many cares, so many maladies, So many fears attending on old age, Yea, death so often called on, as no wish Can be more frequent with ‘em, their limbs faint, Their senses dull, their seeing, hearing, going [= ability to walk], All dead before them; yea, their very teeth, Their instruments of eating failing them – Yet this is reckoned life!
- A.
On my first son
- B.
To the virgins, to make much of time
- C.
Volpone
- D.
The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano
Correct Answer
C. Volpone -
- 33.
Having stayed, and in an hour’s time seen the fire rage every way, and nobody to my sight endeavouring to quench it [and only trying] to remove their goods … Everything after so long a drought [was] proving combustable.
- A.
The Diary
- B.
Paradise Lost
- C.
The Rape of the Lock
- D.
Easter Wings
Correct Answer
A. The Diary -
- 34.
I protest I was ready to die. I knew not in what state he might be at the time; I only knew the orders to keep out of his way were universal; that the queen would highly disapprove any unauthorized meeting, and that the very action of my running away might deeply, in his present irritable state, offend him. Nevertheless, on I ran, too terrified to stop.
- A.
The Journal and Letters
- B.
On my first son
- C.
To his Coy Mistress
- D.
The Life of Samuel Johnson
Correct Answer
A. The Journal and Letters -
- 35.
The mind is its own place, and in itself Can make a Heav'n of Hell, a Hell of Heav'n. What matter where? ... Better to reign in Hell than serve in Heav'n.
- A.
Epistle from Mrs. Yonge to Her Husband
- B.
Paradise Lost
- C.
Mac Flecknoe
- D.
Pamphilia to Amphilanthus
Correct Answer
B. Paradise LostExplanation
The given excerpt is from the poem "Paradise Lost" by John Milton. The lines suggest that the mind has the power to create its own reality and perception. It can turn heaven into hell and hell into heaven. This idea reflects the theme of the poem, which explores the fall of man and the consequences of disobedience. "Paradise Lost" is the correct answer as it is the title of the poem from which the excerpt is taken.Rate this question:
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- 36.
All bargains but conditional are made [= subject to certain conditions]; The purchase void, the creditor unpaid; Defrauded servants are from service free; A wounded slave regains his liberty. For wives ill used no remedy remains, To daily racks condemned, and to eternal chains
- A.
The Castaway
- B.
Shakespeare and Ben Jonson compared
- C.
Epistle from Mrs. Yonge to her Husband
- D.
The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano
Correct Answer
C. Epistle from Mrs. Yonge to her Husband -
- 37.
X alone my perfect image bears, Mature in dullness from his tender years; X alone, of all my sons, is he Who stands confirmed in full stupidity.
- A.
Areopagitica
- B.
A Modest Proposal
- C.
The Diary
- D.
Mac Flecknoe
Correct Answer
D. Mac FlecknoeExplanation
Mac Flecknoe is the correct answer because the given lines describe a person named X who is portrayed as being dull and stupid. Mac Flecknoe is a satirical poem by John Dryden that mocks a poet named Thomas Shadwell, portraying him as a mediocre and unintelligent writer. The poem describes Shadwell as the son and successor of the fictional poet Flecknoe, who is known for his dullness. Therefore, Mac Flecknoe is the most fitting option based on the description provided.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Nor, cruel as it seemed, could he Their haste himself condemn, Aware that flight, in such a sea, Alone could rescue them; Yet bitter felt it still to die Deserted, and his friends so nigh.
- A.
The Castaway
- B.
An Essay of Dramatic Poesy
- C.
Gulliver's Travels
- D.
Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard
Correct Answer
A. The CastawayExplanation
The given excerpt is from the poem "The Castaway". In this poem, the speaker is reflecting on the cruel reality of being abandoned at sea. Despite knowing that his only chance of survival is to flee, he feels bitter about the prospect of dying alone while his friends are nearby. The poem explores themes of isolation, desperation, and the harshness of nature.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Let not Ambition mock their useful toil, Their homely joys, and destiny obscure; Nor Grandeur hear with a disdainful smile The short and simple annals of the poor
- A.
Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard
- B.
The Deserted Village
- C.
Shakespeare and Ben Jonson compared
- D.
Paradise Lost
Correct Answer
A. Elegy Written in a Country ChurchyardExplanation
The given correct answer is "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard." This is because the excerpt provided is a stanza from the poem "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard" by Thomas Gray. The poem reflects on the lives of ordinary, humble people and their overlooked contributions to society. The mention of "useful toil," "homely joys," and "destiny obscure" allude to the themes explored in the elegy.Rate this question:
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- 40.
The grave's a fine and private place, But none, I think, do there embrace. Now therefore, while the youthful hue Sits on thy skin like morning dew ... Now let us sport us while we may.
- A.
Redemption
- B.
A Modest Proposal
- C.
An Essay on Criticism
- D.
To His Coy Mistress
Correct Answer
D. To His Coy MistressExplanation
The given excerpt talks about the idea of seizing the moment and enjoying life while one is still young and full of vitality. The speaker suggests that the grave is a quiet and peaceful place, but no one can embrace or enjoy life there. Therefore, the speaker advises the listener to make the most of their youth and engage in pleasure and enjoyment while they still can. This theme of carpe diem, or seizing the day, is a common theme in Andrew Marvell's poem "To His Coy Mistress."Rate this question:
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- 41.
Ill fares the land, to hastening ills a prey, Where wealth accumulates, and men decay; Princes and lords may flourish, or may fade; A breath can make them, as a breath has made: But a bold peasantry, their country's pride, When once destroyed, can never be supplied.
- A.
To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time
- B.
Epistle from Mrs. Yonge to Her Husband
- C.
The Deserted Village
- D.
An Essay on Criticism
Correct Answer
C. The Deserted VillageExplanation
The correct answer is "The Deserted Village" because the given lines are a quote from the poem "The Deserted Village" by Oliver Goldsmith. The poem reflects on the negative effects of wealth accumulation and the decline of rural communities, emphasizing the importance of a strong and prosperous peasantry.Rate this question:
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- 42.
Love a child is ever crying, Please him, and he straight is flying; Give him, he the more is craving, Never satisfied with having.
- A.
Paradise Lost
- B.
Areopagitica
- C.
To his coy mistress
- D.
Pamphilia to Amphilanthus
Correct Answer
D. Pamphilia to Amphilanthus -
- 43.
His first defect is that to which may be imputed most of the evil in books or in men. He sacrifices virtue to convenience, and is so much more careful to please than to instruct that he seems to write without any moral purpose ... This fault the barbarity of his age cannot extenuate; for it is always a writer's duty to make the world better.
- A.
The Pulley
- B.
The Preface to Shakespeare
- C.
Gulliver’s Travels
- D.
A Dictionary of the English Language
Correct Answer
B. The Preface to ShakespeareExplanation
The given passage discusses a defect in a writer's work, where they prioritize pleasing the readers over imparting moral values. This is seen in their disregard for virtue and lack of a moral purpose in their writing. The correct answer, "The Preface to Shakespeare," aligns with this explanation as it is a preface written by Samuel Johnson, criticizing the lack of moral purpose in Shakespeare's plays. Johnson argues that it is a writer's duty to make the world better, suggesting that Shakespeare's works fall short in this regard.Rate this question:
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- 44.
Lord, who createdst man in wealth and store [= abundance] Though foolishly he lost the same Decaying more and more Till he became Most poor.
- A.
Volpone
- B.
The Rape of the Lock
- C.
Easter Wings
- D.
Pamphilia to Amphilanthus
Correct Answer
C. Easter WingsExplanation
The correct answer is "Easter Wings" because the given lines are a part of the poem "Easter Wings" by George Herbert. The poem is known for its unique shape, resembling wings, and explores the themes of human fallibility and redemption. The lines suggest that man was created with abundance but foolishly lost it, decaying and becoming poor. This reflects the biblical story of Adam and Eve's fall from grace in the Garden of Eden.Rate this question:
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Mar 20, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Dec 01, 2013Quiz Created by
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