Theatre History Trivia Knowledge! Quiz

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  • 1/38 Questions

    The first recorded theatrical performance was in __________________ in about 2000 BC.

    • Japan
    • Rome
    • Egypt
    • Spain
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About This Quiz

Explore the origins and evolution of theatre with the Theatre History Trivia Knowledge! Quiz. Delve into ancient theatrical practices, from the first recorded performance in Egypt to the seminal Greek contributions, assessing your understanding of key historical figures and concepts in theatre.

Theatre History Trivia Knowledge! Quiz - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    The Greeks are credited with starting theatre to honor the god:

    • Dionysis

    • Osiris

    • Zeus

    • Thespis

    Correct Answer
    A. Dionysis
    Explanation
    The Greeks are credited with starting theatre to honor the god Dionysis. Dionysis was the Greek god of wine, fertility, and revelry. The ancient Greeks believed that by performing plays and rituals in his honor, they could ensure a good harvest and fertility in their lives. Dionysis was also associated with drama and theatrical performances, making him the perfect god to be honored through the art of theatre.

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  • 3. 

    The Greek chorus originally danced around an altar singing the "________" or tragos.

    • Wolf Song

    • Goat Song

    • Whale Song

    • God Song

    Correct Answer
    A. Goat Song
    Explanation
    The Greek chorus originally danced around an altar singing the "Goat Song" or tragos. The term tragos refers to the ritual sacrifice of a goat, which was a common practice in ancient Greek religious ceremonies. The chorus would sing and dance to honor the gods, often accompanied by the sacrificial offering of a goat. This tradition was an integral part of Greek theater and mythology, and the goat song was a significant element in these performances.

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  • 4. 

    The chorus member who stepped away from the chorus and engaged in dialog with them was _________, the first actor.

    • Dionysis

    • Osiris

    • Zeus

    • Thespis

    Correct Answer
    A. Thespis
    Explanation
    Thespis is the correct answer because he is known as the first actor in Greek theatre. He is credited with stepping away from the chorus and engaging in dialogue with them, which was a groundbreaking innovation in the development of theatre. Dionysis, Osiris, and Zeus are not associated with this specific aspect of theatre history.

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  • 5. 

    All of the acting in Greek plays was done by:

    • Men

    • Women

    • Animals

    Correct Answer
    A. Men
    Explanation
    In ancient Greek plays, all of the acting was done by men. This was because women were not allowed to participate in the theater. The roles of female characters were also played by men, who would often wear masks to portray different characters. This was a common practice in ancient Greek theater and was influenced by cultural and societal norms of that time.

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  • 6. 

    The writer of the Eumenides and the man who is called the "Father of Tragedy" is:

    • Euripides

    • Sophocles

    • Aeschylus

    • Aristophanes

    Correct Answer
    A. Aeschylus
    Explanation
    The correct answer is Aeschylus. Aeschylus is known as the "Father of Tragedy" because he is considered the first playwright to introduce multiple characters and dialogue into his plays, as well as the use of costumes and props. He wrote numerous tragedies, including the famous trilogy known as the Oresteia, which includes the play Eumenides. Euripides and Sophocles were also prominent playwrights in ancient Greece, but Aeschylus is specifically recognized as the "Father of Tragedy". Aristophanes, on the other hand, was a famous comic playwright.

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  • 7. 

    _________________ wrote Oedipus the King and Antigone and is often compared to Shakespeare as the greatest playwright of all time.

    • Euripides

    • Sophocles

    • Aeschylus

    • Aristophanes

    Correct Answer
    A. Sophocles
    Explanation
    Sophocles is the correct answer because he is the playwright who wrote Oedipus the King and Antigone. He is often compared to Shakespeare as one of the greatest playwrights of all time. Euripides, Aeschylus, and Aristophanes were also notable playwrights in ancient Greece, but they did not write Oedipus the King and Antigone.

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  • 8. 

    _____________wrote about women, such as Medea, and he originated the prologue to summarize the plot for the audience prior to the action of the play.

    • Euripides

    • Sophocles

    • Aeschylus

    • Aristophanes

    Correct Answer
    A. Euripides
    Explanation
    Euripides is the correct answer because he wrote about women characters like Medea and he is credited with originating the prologue, which is a summary of the plot given to the audience before the play begins.

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  • 9. 

    The only writer of Greek comedy whose plays exist in whole today is ________________, who wrote Birds and Frogs.

    • Euripides

    • Sophocles

    • Aeschylus

    • Aristophanes

    Correct Answer
    A. Aristophanes
    Explanation
    Aristophanes is the correct answer because he is the only writer of Greek comedy whose plays exist in whole today. He is known for his plays Birds and Frogs, among others. Euripides, Sophocles, and Aeschylus were all prominent Greek playwrights, but their works have not survived in their entirety.

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  • 10. 

    Roman plays, which are not considered in the same class with the Greek plays, consisted of:

    • Dancing

    • Horseplay

    • Obscene mimes

    • All are correct

    Correct Answer
    A. All are correct
    Explanation
    Roman plays were known for their diverse and eclectic nature, incorporating various elements such as dancing, horseplay, and obscene mimes. Unlike Greek plays, which focused more on tragedy and philosophical themes, Roman plays often included elements of comedy, physicality, and even raunchiness. Therefore, all of the given options are correct in describing the components of Roman plays.

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  • 11. 

    Which of the following was not a Roman writer?

    • Plautus

    • Agamemnon

    • Terence

    • Seneca

    Correct Answer
    A. Agamemnon
  • 12. 

    In the Medieval period, ___________ plays were based on the lives of saints and stories from the Bible.

    • Miracle

    • Passion

    • Morality

    • Masque

    Correct Answer
    A. Miracle
    Explanation
    In the Medieval period, miracle plays were based on the lives of saints and stories from the Bible. These plays were known for their portrayal of miraculous events and divine intervention. They aimed to teach and inspire the audience with religious themes and moral lessons. The term "miracle" refers to the supernatural elements and extraordinary occurrences depicted in these plays, making it the most fitting answer.

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  • 13. 

    A play based on Christ's final week is called a _______________ play.

    • Miracle

    • Passion

    • Morality

    • Masque

    Correct Answer
    A. Passion
    Explanation
    A play based on Christ's final week is called a "Passion" play. The term "Passion" refers to the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Passion plays are typically performed during the Easter season and depict the events leading up to Christ's death. These plays aim to portray the emotions and sacrifice of Jesus, emphasizing his passion for humanity.

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  • 14. 

    A spectacular play which used excess and extravagance to glorify the nobility was a:

    • Miracle

    • Passion

    • Morality

    • Masque

    Correct Answer
    A. Masque
    Explanation
    A masque was a form of entertainment popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly in England. It was a lavish and extravagant performance that combined music, dance, and acting. Masques were often commissioned by the nobility and used excessive decorations, costumes, and special effects to showcase their wealth and power. They were considered a way to glorify and celebrate the nobility, making "Masque" the correct answer as it best fits the description of a spectacular play that used excess and extravagance to glorify the nobility.

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  • 15. 

    Plays that were written to teach basic principles (right versus wrong) are called _________ plays.

    • Miracle

    • Passion

    • Morality

    • Masque

    Correct Answer
    A. Morality
    Explanation
    Plays that were written to teach basic principles (right versus wrong) are called morality plays. These plays were popular during the medieval period and aimed to instruct the audience on moral values and religious teachings. They often depicted allegorical characters and situations that represented virtues and vices, allowing the audience to reflect on their own behavior and choices. The term "morality" refers to the ethical principles and standards that govern human behavior, making it an appropriate term for these types of plays.

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  • 16. 

    Named after the queen who ruled for a great part of it, the _______________ or Renaissance period saw a rebirth of great comedy and drama.

    • Elizabethan

    • Victorian

    • Georgian

    • Italian

    Correct Answer
    A. Elizabethan
    Explanation
    The correct answer is Elizabethan. This period is named after Queen Elizabeth I, who ruled during a significant portion of it. The Elizabethan era was known for its flourishing of comedy and drama, with the works of playwrights like William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe gaining popularity. This period is often considered a "rebirth" or "renaissance" of theater in England.

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  • 17. 

    To finance their endeavors and to maintain their reputations, Renaissance actors sought the patronage of:

    • Writers

    • Guilds

    • Gypsies

    • Noblemen

    Correct Answer
    A. Noblemen
    Explanation
    During the Renaissance period, actors relied on the financial support and protection of noblemen to fund their projects and maintain their reputation. Noblemen, who were often wealthy and influential individuals, would provide financial backing and serve as patrons for the actors. This patronage allowed actors to continue their artistic endeavors, such as performing in plays and staging productions, while also ensuring their social standing and recognition within society. Seeking the patronage of noblemen was crucial for Renaissance actors to secure financial stability and maintain their status in the theatrical world.

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  • 18. 

    During the Renaissance period, __________ were prevented from acting for fear that it would cause immorality.

    • Women

    • Criminals

    • Servants

    • Noblemen

    Correct Answer
    A. Women
    Explanation
    During the Renaissance period, women were prevented from acting for fear that it would cause immorality. This was due to the prevailing societal norms and beliefs that women should be confined to their traditional roles as wives and mothers. Acting was seen as a profession that required women to publicly display emotions and interact closely with male actors, which was considered inappropriate and potentially scandalous. Therefore, women were discouraged from pursuing acting careers to maintain the moral standards of the time.

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  • 19. 

    The Elizabethan writer who is credited for introducing blank verse and who wrote The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus is:

    • Ben Jonson

    • Christopher Marlowe

    • William Shakespeare

    Correct Answer
    A. Christopher Marlowe
    Explanation
    Christopher Marlowe is credited for introducing blank verse and wrote The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus. Blank verse is a form of poetry that does not rhyme but follows a specific meter. Marlowe's play, The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus, is one of his most famous works and explores themes of ambition, knowledge, and the consequences of making a deal with the devil. While Ben Jonson and William Shakespeare were also prominent Elizabethan writers, Marlowe is specifically known for his contributions to blank verse and his play Doctor Faustus.

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  • 20. 

    The bitter Elizabethan writer who got into trouble for writing whatever he felt was:

    • Ben Jonson

    • Christopher Marlowe

    • William Shakespeare

    Correct Answer
    A. Ben Jonson
    Explanation
    Ben Jonson was a bitter Elizabethan writer who often got into trouble for his outspoken and controversial writings. He was known for expressing his true feelings and opinions without hesitation, which often led to conflicts and controversies. Unlike Shakespeare and Marlowe, who were also renowned playwrights of the Elizabethan era, Jonson's writing style was characterized by its biting satire and criticism of society. Therefore, Ben Jonson is the correct answer for the given question.

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  • 21. 

    Which of these is NOT a Shakespearean play?

    • Volpone

    • Hamlet

    • Macbeth

    • Othello

    Correct Answer
    A. Volpone
    Explanation
    Volpone is not a Shakespearean play. It is actually a comedy play written by Ben Jonson, a contemporary of William Shakespeare. Shakespeare did not write this play, therefore it is the correct answer. Hamlet, Macbeth, and Othello are all well-known plays written by Shakespeare.

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  • 22. 

    A poor man who wanted to attend the play by Marlowe, Jonson, or Shakespeare could stand in the "pit,"  the area in front of the stage.  The people in this area were called:

    • Penny Men

    • Groundlings

    • Standers

    • Pitters

    Correct Answer
    A. Groundlings
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "Groundlings." In Elizabethan England, the "groundlings" referred to the lower-class audience members who could only afford to stand in the pit area in front of the stage. They were called groundlings because they stood on the ground rather than having a seat in the more expensive sections. This term was commonly used during the time of Marlowe, Jonson, and Shakespeare to describe this particular group of theater-goers.

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  • 23. 

    The Commedia dell'arte performance did not include which of the following:

    • Scripts

    • Plots

    • Sub-Plots

    • Stock Characters

    Correct Answer
    A. Scripts
    Explanation
    Commedia dell'arte was a form of improvisational theater that originated in Italy during the 16th century. Performances were characterized by the use of stock characters, exaggerated physical comedy, and improvised dialogue. Unlike traditional theater, Commedia dell'arte did not rely on scripted dialogue. Instead, performers were given a general outline of the plot and their characters, allowing them to improvise their lines and actions. Therefore, scripts were not included in Commedia dell'arte performances.

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  • 24. 

    The commedia dell'arte plays were performed by traveling

    • Companies

    • Lazzi

    • Burle

    • Zanni

    Correct Answer
    A. Companies
    Explanation
    The commedia dell'arte plays were performed by traveling companies. These companies consisted of a group of actors who would travel from one place to another, performing their plays in various locations. The plays were often improvised and comedic in nature, with the actors playing stock characters such as the Zanni or the Burle. The companies would set up temporary stages and perform in public spaces, entertaining audiences with their lively and humorous performances.

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  • 25. 

    In commedia dell'arte beautiful young lovers were called:

    • Pantalone

    • Il Capitano

    • Innamorata

    • Fontesca

    Correct Answer
    A. Innamorata
    Explanation
    In commedia dell'arte, the term "Innamorata" refers to the beautiful young lovers. This term is used to describe the female character who is deeply in love and often plays a central role in the comedic plot. The Innamorata is typically portrayed as innocent, romantic, and passionate, adding a touch of romance and intrigue to the performances.

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  • 26. 

    In commedia dell'arte the flirtatious maidservant was the: 

    • Pantalone

    • Il Capitano

    • Innamorata

    • Fontesca

    Correct Answer
    A. Fontesca
    Explanation
    Fontesca is the correct answer because in commedia dell'arte, Fontesca is a stock character who is often portrayed as a flirtatious maidservant. She is known for her coquettish behavior and her ability to manipulate the other characters in the play. Fontesca is typically depicted as a young and attractive woman who uses her charm and wit to get what she wants. She often serves as a source of comedic relief and adds an element of romance and intrigue to the plot.

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  • 27. 

    In commedia dell'arte, the heroine's father was named:

    • Pantalone

    • Il Capitano

    • Innamorata

    • Fontesca

    Correct Answer
    A. Pantalone
    Explanation
    Pantalone is the correct answer because in commedia dell'arte, Pantalone is a stock character who often plays the role of the heroine's father. He is typically portrayed as an old, wealthy merchant, and his name is derived from the Italian word "pantaloni" meaning pants, as he is often depicted wearing tight-fitting trousers. Pantalone is known for his miserly nature and his attempts to control his daughter's love life, making him a common character in commedia dell'arte plays.

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  • 28. 

    The English Royal Patent of 1662 did what?

    • Made theatre illegal

    • Allowed women to act

    • "Legitimized" theatre

    • Allowed women to act AND "Legitimized theatre

    Correct Answer
    A. Allowed women to act AND "Legitimized theatre
    Explanation
    The English Royal Patent of 1662 allowed women to act and "legitimized" theatre. This means that it granted permission for women to participate in theatrical performances and also recognized theatre as a legitimate and respected form of entertainment. Prior to this patent, women were not allowed to act on stage, and theatre was not considered a reputable profession. The patent played a significant role in changing the dynamics of the theatre industry and expanding opportunities for women in the performing arts.

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  • 29. 

    The comic trendsetter of the Restoration period who wrote The Country Wife was:

    • William Congreve

    • George Farquhar

    • William Wycherly

    Correct Answer
    A. William Wycherly
    Explanation
    William Wycherly is the correct answer because he was a comic trendsetter during the Restoration period and he wrote the play "The Country Wife." This play is known for its witty and satirical depiction of the society of the time, particularly in its exploration of marriage and infidelity. Wycherly's work was influential in shaping the comedic style of the era, making him a significant figure in Restoration comedy.

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  • 30. 

    The playwright who challenged audiences to think and who wrote Arms and the Man and Saint Joan were:

    • Oscar Wilde

    • George Bernard Shaw

    • Oliver Goldsmith

    Correct Answer
    A. George Bernard Shaw
    Explanation
    George Bernard Shaw is the correct answer because he was a playwright who challenged audiences to think. He wrote plays such as Arms and the Man and Saint Joan, which are known for their thought-provoking themes and social commentary. Oscar Wilde was also a renowned playwright, but his works were more focused on wit and satire rather than challenging societal norms. Oliver Goldsmith, on the other hand, was a playwright and novelist from the 18th century, known for works like She Stoops to Conquer, but he did not write Arms and the Man or Saint Joan.

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  • 31. 

    The Japanese theatre style that uses dolls or puppets is called:

    • Kabuki

    • Noh

    • Bunraku

    Correct Answer
    A. Bunraku
    Explanation
    Bunraku is the correct answer because it is a traditional Japanese theatre style that uses dolls or puppets. It originated in the 17th century and involves highly skilled puppeteers who manipulate the puppets on stage, while narrators and musicians provide the accompanying music and dialogue. Bunraku is known for its intricate puppets, detailed costumes, and emotionally captivating performances, making it a unique and significant art form in Japanese culture.

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  • 32. 

    The Japanese theatre style named after its three parts (singing, dancing, and acting) is: 

    • Kabuki

    • Noh

    • Bunraku

    Correct Answer
    A. Kabuki
    Explanation
    Kabuki is a traditional Japanese theatre style that incorporates singing, dancing, and acting. It originated in the early 17th century and is known for its elaborate costumes, stylized movements, and dramatic storytelling. Kabuki performances often feature historical or mythological themes and are characterized by the use of vibrant makeup and exaggerated gestures. The name "Kabuki" itself refers to the three main elements of the art form: "ka" for singing, "bu" for dancing, and "ki" for acting.

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  • 33. 

    The American stage borrowed its early plots from the plays of _______ for much of its youth.

    • Japan

    • Italy

    • France

    • Britain

    Correct Answer
    A. Britain
    Explanation
    The American stage borrowed its early plots from the plays of Britain for much of its youth. This suggests that the early American stage drew inspiration and influence from British plays, indicating a cultural and artistic connection between the two countries.

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  • 34. 

    The eventual greatness of the American stage was almost overshadowed by the sudden impact of 

    • Film

    • The Car

    • The Computer

    • The Telephone

    Correct Answer
    A. Film
    Explanation
    Film had a sudden impact on the American stage, almost overshadowing its eventual greatness. The introduction of film as a new medium of entertainment revolutionized the way stories were told and consumed. It provided a visual and immersive experience that captivated audiences and offered a level of realism that was previously unattainable on stage. This sudden impact of film threatened the dominance of the American stage, as people flocked to cinemas to experience this new form of entertainment. However, despite this initial overshadowing, the American stage eventually found its own greatness and continued to thrive alongside the film industry.

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  • 35. 

    _______________ wrote The Iceman Cometh and A Long Day's Journey into Night.

    • Eugene O'Neill

    • ThorntonWilder

    • Arthur Miller

    Correct Answer
    A. Eugene O'Neill
    Explanation
    Eugene O'Neill is the correct answer because he is the playwright who wrote both "The Iceman Cometh" and "A Long Day's Journey into Night." These two plays are considered some of O'Neill's most famous and influential works in American theater. O'Neill's plays often explore themes of addiction, family dynamics, and the human condition, and he is regarded as one of the foremost playwrights in American literature.

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  • 36. 

    The author of Death of a Salesman and The Crucible is:

    • Eugene O'Neill

    • ThorntonWilder

    • Arthur Miller

    Correct Answer
    A. Arthur Miller
    Explanation
    Arthur Miller is the correct answer because he is the author of both Death of a Salesman and The Crucible. Miller was an American playwright and is considered one of the greatest playwrights in American history. Death of a Salesman, a tragedy that explores the American Dream, won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1949. The Crucible, a dramatized and fictionalized account of the Salem witch trials, is one of Miller's most famous works and has been widely performed and studied. Miller's plays often dealt with social and political issues, and he is known for his realistic portrayal of complex characters.

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  • 37. 

    _____________ wrote Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, a Streetcar Named Desire, and Night of the Iguana.

    • Thornton WIlder

    • Arthur Miller

    • Tenesse Williams

    Correct Answer
    A. Tenesse Williams
    Explanation
    Tennessee Williams is the correct answer because he is the playwright who wrote "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," "A Streetcar Named Desire," and "Night of the Iguana." Thornton Wilder and Arthur Miller are not associated with these specific plays.

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  • 38. 

    She wrote about a black family's struggles in A Raisin in the Sun.

    • Lorraine Hansberry

    • Beth Henley

    • Lillian Hellman

    Correct Answer
    A. Lorraine Hansberry
    Explanation
    Lorraine Hansberry is the correct answer because she is the author of the play "A Raisin in the Sun," which explores the struggles of a black family. The play is considered a classic in American literature and addresses themes of racial discrimination, poverty, and the pursuit of dreams. Hansberry's work is known for its powerful portrayal of African American experiences and its impact on the civil rights movement.

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Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Mar 22, 2023 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Mar 22, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • May 05, 2011
    Quiz Created by
    Eacook1984

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