Semester Exam Practice - Literary Elements (Part 1)
AP Literature and English II - Semester Exam practice test - Review of literary devices and elements. Part 1 of 2. Please note: This is a timed examination. You will have 20 minutes to take the exam. 85% is the pass-rate. If you do not complete the test in 20 minutes, you will have to retake it from the beginning.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
O wild West Wind, though breath of Autumn’s being. Thou, from whose unseen presence the leaves deadAre driven, like ghosts from an enchanter fleeing. Yellow, and black, and pale, and hectic red, Pestilence-stricken multitudes: O thou Who chariotest to their dark wintry bed The winged seeds, where they lie cold and low, Each like a corpse within its grave, until Thine azure sister of the Spring shall blow Her clarion o’er the dreaming earth, and fill(Driving sweet buds like flocks to feed in air) With living hues and odours plain and hill: Wild Spirit, which art moving everywhere: Destroyer and preserver; hear, oh hear!-from Ode to the West Wind by Percy Bysshe ShelleyWhich of the following is not used by the speaker to describe the power of the wind?
- A.
Apostrophe
- B.
Oxymoron
- C.
Paradox
- D.
Simile
- E.
Synecdoche
Correct Answer
B. OxymoronExplanation
In the given excerpt from "Ode to the West Wind" by Percy Bysshe Shelley, the speaker uses various literary devices to describe the power of the wind. Apostrophe is used when the speaker directly addresses the wind as "O wild West Wind" and "Wild Spirit." Paradox is used when the speaker refers to the wind as both a "destroyer and preserver." Simile is used when the speaker compares the movement of the wind to the blowing of a clarion by the sister of Spring. Synecdoche is used when the speaker refers to the wind as the "breath of Autumn's being." However, oxymoron is not used in this excerpt to describe the power of the wind.Rate this question:
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- 2.
O wild West Wind, though breath of Autumn’s being. Thou, from whose unseen presence the leaves deadAre driven, like ghosts from an enchanter fleeing. Yellow, and black, and pale, and hectic red, Pestilence-stricken multitudes: O thou Who chariotest to their dark wintry bed The winged seeds, where they lie cold and low, Each like a corpse within its grave, until Thine azure sister of the Spring shall blow Her clarion o’er the dreaming earth, and fill(Driving sweet buds like flocks to feed in air) With living hues and odours plain and hill: Wild Spirit, which art moving everywhere: Destroyer and preserver; hear, oh hear! The speaker compares the wind to all of the following EXCEPT:
- A.
A charioteer
- B.
A corpse
- C.
A plague
- D.
A sorcerer
- E.
A trumpeter
Correct Answer
B. A corpseExplanation
The speaker compares the wind to a charioteer, a plague, a sorcerer, and a trumpeter, but not a corpse. The wind is described as the breath of Autumn's being, the unseen presence that drives the dead leaves like ghosts, and the charioteer that carries the winged seeds to their wintry bed. The wind is also referred to as the destroyer and preserver, which implies its power and vitality. However, there is no mention or comparison to a corpse in the given passage.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which of the following is best represented by the definition and example below?A figure of speech in which someone absent or dead or something nonhuman is addressed as if it were alive and present and was able to reply."O wild West Wind..." is an example of this device.
- A.
Alliteration
- B.
Antimetabole
- C.
Antistrophe
- D.
Apostrophe
- E.
Asyndeton
Correct Answer
D. ApostropheExplanation
While the example demonstrates alliteration, the definition does not.Rate this question:
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- 4.
“Destroyer and preserver” is an example of a statement that initially appears to be contradictory but, on closer inspection, turns out to make sense. This is known as a/an...
- A.
Synecdoche
- B.
Simile
- C.
Paradox
- D.
Oxymoron
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
C. ParadoxExplanation
A paradox is a statement or situation that appears to be contradictory or absurd, but upon further examination, reveals a deeper truth or meaning. In the given statement, "destroyer and preserver," the words "destroyer" and "preserver" seem to be opposites, suggesting a contradiction. However, upon closer inspection, one can understand that destruction and preservation can coexist in certain contexts, such as in the natural cycle of life and death or in the act of breaking down old structures to create something new. Therefore, the statement represents a paradox.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Far, far beneath in the abysmal sea,His ancient, dreamless, uninvaded sleepThe Kraken sleepeth: faintest sunlights fleeAbout his shadowy sides: above him swell-from The Kraken by Alfred, Lord TennysonIn the excerpt above, "sleep" and "sleepeth" represent a stylistic scheme in which words derived from the same root are repeated. In other words, "uninvaded sleep" refers to sleep as a noun and sleepeth is a verb.What is the name of this stylistic device?
- A.
Antimetabole
- B.
Exemplum
- C.
Hyperbaton
- D.
Polyptoton
- E.
Syllogism
Correct Answer
D. PolyptotonExplanation
The correct answer is polyptoton. Polyptoton is a stylistic device in which words derived from the same root are repeated, but in different grammatical forms. In this case, "sleep" is used as a noun in "uninvaded sleep" and as a verb in "sleepeth." This repetition of the root word creates emphasis and adds poetic effect to the passage.Rate this question:
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- 6.
A literary work, especially a play, that has a happy ending--often marked by marriage. Examples of this type of literary work include: The Taming of the Shrew and A Midsummer Night's Dream--both by William Shakespeare.
- A.
Comedy
- B.
History
- C.
Morality
- D.
Romance
- E.
Tragedy
Correct Answer
A. ComedyExplanation
A literary work that has a happy ending, often marked by marriage, is called a comedy. This genre focuses on humorous and light-hearted situations and usually ends with the resolution of conflicts and the characters finding happiness. Examples of comedies include "The Taming of the Shrew" and "A Midsummer Night's Dream" by William Shakespeare.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The high point of interest or suspense in a literary work is known as the _________.
- A.
Exposition
- B.
Rising action
- C.
Climax
- D.
Falling action
- E.
Resolution
Correct Answer
C. ClimaxExplanation
The climax is the point in a literary work where the tension and suspense reach their highest point. It is the most intense and pivotal moment in the story, where the conflict comes to a head and the outcome is determined. The climax is often a turning point that leads to the resolution of the story.Rate this question:
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- 8.
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. The passage above--Psalm 23--represents which of the following literary devices?
- A.
Caesura
- B.
Conceit
- C.
Dramatic monologue
- D.
Hyperbole
- E.
Metonymy
Correct Answer
B. ConceitExplanation
The passage above represents a conceit, which is a type of extended metaphor. The speaker compares their relationship with the Lord to that of a shepherd and a sheep, using vivid imagery to describe the care and guidance provided by the Lord. This comparison creates a complex and elaborate metaphor, making it an example of conceit.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Unrhymed poetry written in iambic pentameter is known as __________.
- A.
A ballad
- B.
Blank verse
- C.
Free verse
- D.
Sestina
- E.
Terza rima
Correct Answer
B. Blank verseExplanation
Blank verse is the correct answer because it refers to unrhymed poetry written in iambic pentameter. In iambic pentameter, each line has five pairs of unstressed and stressed syllables. Blank verse is commonly used in English literature, particularly in plays and epic poems, as it mimics natural speech patterns and allows for flexibility in expression. It provides a rhythmic structure without the constraints of rhyme, allowing the poet to focus on the content and meaning of the poem.Rate this question:
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- 10.
AP QUESTION “To the Virgins, to Make Much of Time” by Robert Herrick Gather ye rosebuds while ye may, Old time is still a flying; And this same flower that smiles today Tomorrow will be dying. The glorious lamp of heaven, the sun, The higher he’s a-getting, The sooner will his race be run, And nearer he’s to setting. 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. Then be not coy, but use your time, And, while ye may, go marry; For, having lost but once your prime, You may forever tarry.The theme of the poem above is an example of __________.
Correct Answer
carpe diem
seize the dayExplanation
Carpe Diem is a Latin phrase meaning "seize the day" or "make the most of passing time." Many great literary works have been written with the carpe diem theme--presenting arguments for enjoying life in the present. Herrick's poem is one of the best-known poems with the carpe diem theme.Rate this question:
- 11.
AP QUESTIONA song that tells a story, often dealing with adventure or romance, or a poem imitating such a song. Most of these songs or poems are divided into four- or six-line stanzas, are rhymed, use simple language, and depict dramatic action.
- A.
Ballad
- B.
Caesura
- C.
Elegy
- D.
Lyric poem
- E.
Sonnet
Correct Answer
A. BalladExplanation
A ballad is a type of song or poem that tells a story, often involving adventure or romance. It is characterized by its division into four- or six-line stanzas, its use of rhyme, simple language, and depiction of dramatic action. Ballads are known for their narrative quality and are often passed down orally through generations. They are a popular form of storytelling in many cultures and can be found in various literary traditions.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Calling a cigarette a "smoke" or a businessman a "suit" are examples of what literary device?
- A.
Conceit
- B.
Epiphany
- C.
Imagery
- D.
Kenning
- E.
Metonymy
Correct Answer
E. MetonymyExplanation
Metonymy is a literary device where a word or phrase is substituted with another word or phrase that is closely associated with it. In this case, calling a cigarette a "smoke" or a businessman a "suit" is using metonymy because the substituted words are closely related to the original words and convey the same meaning.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A reference, in a work of literature, to a well-known person, place, event, literary work, or work of art is known as a/an _________.In the Twilight series, Stephenie Meyer mentions Wuthering Heights and Romeo and Juliet--her usage of these well-known literary works is an example of this literary device.
- A.
Allegory
- B.
Allusion
- C.
Anapest
- D.
Antimetabole
- E.
Assonance
Correct Answer
B. AllusionExplanation
In the given question, the correct answer is "allusion". This is because an allusion refers to a reference made in a work of literature to a well-known person, place, event, literary work, or work of art. In the Twilight series, Stephenie Meyer mentions Wuthering Heights and Romeo and Juliet, which are well-known literary works, thus making it an example of allusion.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Deliberate exaggeration or overstament is known as _________. Examples of this device include: - I'm so tired I could sleep for a month. - I'm so hungry I could eat a horse. - I will just, like, die if my parents take away my cell phone. - I don't have time to go out this weekend. I've got a million things to do.
- A.
Apostrophe
- B.
Hyperbole
- C.
Isocolon
- D.
Onomatopoeia
- E.
Paradox
Correct Answer
B. HyperboleExplanation
Hyperbole is a figure of speech that involves deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. It is used to create emphasis or make a point more strongly. The examples provided in the question demonstrate the use of hyperbole, as they all involve extreme exaggeration to convey a certain emotion or message.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Poetry that is not written in a regular rhythmical pattern or meter is known as ______.Instead of having metrical feet and lines, this type of poetry has a rhythm that suits its meaning and that uses the sounds of spoken language in lines of different lengths. In other words--no rhyme, no meter = _____.from Marriage by Marianne Moore (1887-1972) This institution,perhaps one should say enterpriseout of respect for whichone says one need not change one’s mindabout a thing one has believed in,requiring public promisesof one’s intentionto fulfill a private obligation:I wonder what Adam and Evethink of it by this time,this fire-gilt steelalive with goldenness;how bright it shows—
- A.
Balassi stanza
- B.
Blank verse
- C.
Free verse
- D.
Rondel verse
- E.
Terza rima
Correct Answer
C. Free verseExplanation
The given passage describes poetry that does not follow a regular rhythmical pattern or meter. Instead, this type of poetry has a rhythm that suits its meaning and uses the sounds of spoken language in lines of different lengths. This type of poetry is known as free verse.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A poem expressing the observations and feelings of a single speaker is known as a/an _____.
- A.
Elegy
- B.
Epic poem
- C.
Kenning
- D.
Lyric poem
- E.
Narrative poem
Correct Answer
D. Lyric poemExplanation
A lyric poem is a type of poem that expresses the observations and feelings of a single speaker. It is often personal and emotional in nature, focusing on the speaker's thoughts and experiences. Unlike narrative poems that tell a story or epic poems that are long and heroic, a lyric poem is shorter and more introspective. It allows the poet to convey their emotions and reflections in a concise and heartfelt manner.Rate this question:
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- 17.
A poem that tells a story in verse is known as a/an _____. Three traditional types of this poetry inlcude ballads, epics, and metrical romances.The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge is one example of this type of poem.
- A.
Elegy
- B.
Epic poem
- C.
Kenning
- D.
Metaphysical poem
- E.
Narrative poem
Correct Answer
E. Narrative poemExplanation
A narrative poem is a type of poem that tells a story in verse. It often includes characters, plot, and a sequence of events. The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge is an example of a narrative poem as it tells the story of a mariner's supernatural experiences at sea. Other traditional types of narrative poetry include ballads, epics, and metrical romances.Rate this question:
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- 18.
A fourteen-line lyric poem with a single theme is known as a/an ______. This type of poem is usually written in iambic pentameter, but variances in meter do exist.
- A.
Ballad
- B.
Elegy
- C.
Psalm
- D.
Refrain
- E.
Sonnet
Correct Answer
E. SonnetExplanation
A fourteen-line lyric poem with a single theme is known as a sonnet. This type of poem is usually written in iambic pentameter, but variances in meter do exist.Rate this question:
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- 19.
AP QUESTIONA sonnet that is divided into two parts -- an octave and a sestet -- and usually has a rhyme scheme of abba abba cde cde is known as a/an __________ sonnet. The two parts of this sonnet work together. The octave raises a question, states a problem, or presents a brief narrative; the sestet answers the question, solves the problem or comments on the narrative.
- A.
Miltonian
- B.
Petrarchan
- C.
Shakespearean
- D.
Spenserian
- E.
This does not actually explain a type of sonnet.
Correct Answer
B. PetrarchanExplanation
A sonnet that is divided into two parts - an octave and a sestet - and usually has a rhyme scheme of abba abba cde cde is known as a Petrarchan sonnet. The two parts of this sonnet work together. The octave raises a question, states a problem, or presents a brief narrative; the sestet answers the question, solves the problem or comments on the narrative.Rate this question:
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- 20.
A sonnet comprised of three quatrains plus a concluding couplet is known as a/an ______ sonnet. The rhyme scheme is usually abab cdcd efef gg. Each of the quatrains explores a different variation of the main theme and the couplet presets a concluding statement.
Correct Answer
Shakespearean
Shakespearean sonnet
English
English sonnetExplanation
A sonnet comprised of three quatrains plus a concluding couplet is known as a Shakespearean sonnet or an English sonnet. This type of sonnet follows a specific rhyme scheme of abab cdcd efef gg. Each of the quatrains explores a different variation of the main theme, and the couplet presents a concluding statement.Rate this question:
- 21.
A variant on the English form is the ______ sonnet. This form has a rhyme scheme of abab bcbc cdcd ee.
- A.
Miltonian
- B.
Petrarchan
- C.
Shakespearean
- D.
Spenserian
- E.
This does not actually explain a type of sonnet.
Correct Answer
D. SpenserianExplanation
The correct answer is Spenserian. A Spenserian sonnet is a variant of the English form, named after the poet Edmund Spenser. It follows a rhyme scheme of abab bcbc cdcd ee. This form is different from the Miltonian, Petrarchan, and Shakespearean sonnets, which have their own distinct rhyme schemes and structures.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Christina Rossetti uses what literary device to describe two sisters in this excerpt from "Goblin Market" Like two blossoms of one stem,Like two flakes of new-fallen snow,Like two wands of ivoryTipped with gold for awful kings.
- A.
Metaphor
- B.
Oxymoron
- C.
Paradox
- D.
Simile
- E.
Symbolism
Correct Answer
D. SimileExplanation
The correct answer is simile. A simile is a figure of speech that compares two things using "like" or "as". In the given excerpt, Christina Rossetti compares the two sisters to "two blossoms of one stem", "two flakes of new-fallen snow", and "two wands of ivory tipped with gold for awful kings". This comparison helps to create a vivid image in the reader's mind and emphasizes the close bond between the sisters.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The imaginary voice assumed by the writer of a poem is known as the ________.
Correct Answer
speakerExplanation
The imaginary voice assumed by the writer of a poem is known as the speaker. The speaker is not necessarily the poet themselves, but rather a fictional persona created by the poet to convey the thoughts, feelings, and experiences within the poem. The speaker serves as the narrator of the poem, providing insight into the subject matter and allowing the reader to engage with the poem on a deeper level.Rate this question:
- 24.
The process of analyzing the metrical pattern of a poem is known as _______.
Correct Answer
scansionExplanation
Scansion is the process of analyzing the metrical pattern of a poem. It involves identifying and marking the stressed and unstressed syllables in each line, determining the rhyme scheme, and understanding the overall rhythm of the poem. By studying scansion, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the poem's structure and the poet's intended meaning.Rate this question:
- 25.
The time and place of the action of a literary work is known as the _______.
Correct Answer
settingExplanation
The time and place in which a story takes place is referred to as the setting. It helps to establish the context and atmosphere of the narrative, allowing readers to better understand the events and characters within the story. The setting can play a significant role in shaping the plot and themes of a literary work, as it influences the actions and experiences of the characters.Rate this question:
- 26.
A long speech in a play or in a prose work made by a character who is alone and thus reveals his or her private thoughts and feelings to the audience or reader is known as a/an ______.
Correct Answer
soliloquyExplanation
A soliloquy is a long speech in a play or prose work where a character, who is alone, expresses their private thoughts and feelings to the audience or reader. This allows the audience to gain insight into the character's innermost emotions and motivations. Soliloquies are often used to reveal a character's true intentions or to provide commentary on the events of the story.Rate this question:
- 27.
AP QUESTIONA metaphorical phrase, used in Anglo-Saxon poetry to replace a concrete noun is known as a/an ______.Examples include:battle-sweat = bloodraven-harvest = corpsebane-of-wood = firewhale-road = the seasea-steed = a ship
- A.
Epithet
- B.
Isocolon
- C.
Kenning
- D.
Paradox
- E.
Spondee
Correct Answer
C. KenningExplanation
A kenning is a metaphorical phrase used in Anglo-Saxon poetry to replace a concrete noun. It is a form of figurative language where a compound word or phrase is used to describe something in a unique or poetic way. In the examples given, each kenning replaces a concrete noun with a phrase that evokes a vivid image or idea. For example, "battle-sweat" is used to describe blood, "raven-harvest" is used to describe a corpse, and "whale-road" is used to describe the sea. Kenning adds richness and depth to the poetry by using imaginative and descriptive language.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The following example--from Robert Frost's To Earthward is an example of what type of imagery?"musk from hidden grapevine springs"
- A.
Auditory
- B.
Gustatory
- C.
Olfactory
- D.
Tactile
- E.
Visual
Correct Answer
C. OlfactoryExplanation
The given line from Robert Frost's poem "To Earthward" describes the scent of musk coming from hidden grapevine springs. This appeals to the sense of smell, making it an example of olfactory imagery. The use of the word "musk" and the reference to the scent of grapevine springs evoke a strong olfactory experience for the reader.Rate this question:
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- 29.
AP QUESTIONThe quality of literary works that deal with the pleasures of a simple, rural life or with escape to a simpler place and time is known as _______.Christopher Marlowe's "The Passionate Shepherd to His Love" (p. 217 in your textbook) is an example of this.
Correct Answer
pastoral
pastoral poetryExplanation
Pastoral refers to the quality of literary works that focus on the joys and simplicity of rural life or the desire to escape to a simpler time and place. It often portrays idyllic landscapes, peaceful shepherds, and the beauty of nature. Christopher Marlowe's "The Passionate Shepherd to His Love" is an example of pastoral poetry, which is a specific form of literature that embodies these themes.Rate this question:
- 30.
A type of drama or literature that shows the downfall or destruction of a noble or outstanding character/person--traditionally one who possesses a character weakness or tragic flaw. Hamlet by Shakespeare and Antigone by Sophocles are examples of this type of drama.
Correct Answer
tragedyExplanation
Tragedy is a type of drama or literature that depicts the downfall or destruction of a noble or outstanding character. It typically involves a protagonist who possesses a character weakness or tragic flaw. Works like Hamlet by Shakespeare and Antigone by Sophocles are examples of this genre, as they explore the tragic fates of their main characters. Tragedy often delves into themes of fate, morality, and the consequences of human actions.Rate this question:
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