William Shakespeare Quiz Questions And Answers
(137).jpg "William Shakespeare Quiz Questions And Answers - Quiz")
Do you adore Shakespeare and his work? Here is an interesting 'William Shakespeare Quiz' that is designed to test your knowledge about how well you know the famous English playwright William Shakespeare.
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of William Shakespeare with our quiz! Delve into the Bard of Avon's life, works, and literary genius. Test your knowledge of his iconic plays, memorable characters, and profound insights into human nature. From tragic love stories to witty comedies, Shakespeare's influence spans centuries and continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. The questions in this quiz are craftily compiled and will enable you Read moreto gauge how well you know about Shakespeare's life and works. So, are you ready to take this test? Let's start with the quiz, then! All the best.
William Shakespeare Questions and Answers
- 1.
When was Shakespeare born?
- A.
1565
- B.
1564
- C.
1568
- D.
1563
Correct Answer
B. 1564Explanation
William Shakespeare was born on April 23, 1564. The exact date of his birth is not known, but historical records indicate that he was baptized on April 26, 1564. Therefore, it is widely accepted that he was born on or around April 23, 1564, in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. The year 1564 is the correct answer to the question about Shakespeare's birth year.Rate this question:
-
- 2.
How many plays did Shakespeare write?
- A.
46
- B.
50
- C.
39
- D.
25
Correct Answer
C. 39Explanation
William Shakespeare is credited with writing 39 plays. These plays are typically categorized into three genres: tragedies, comedies, and histories. Some of his most famous works include "Romeo and Juliet," "Hamlet," "Macbeth," "Othello," "A Midsummer Night's Dream," and many others. The number 39 is widely accepted as the total number of plays attributed to Shakespeare. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is 37.Rate this question:
-
- 3.
How many sonnets did Shakespeare write?
- A.
154
- B.
175
- C.
101
- D.
222
Correct Answer
A. 154Explanation
William Shakespeare wrote a total of 154 sonnets. These sonnets are a collection of 154 poems, each consisting of 14 lines written in iambic pentameter. They are considered one of the greatest achievements in English literature and cover various themes, including love, beauty, time, and mortality. The number 154 is the correct answer to the question about the total number of sonnets written by Shakespeare.Rate this question:
-
- 4.
Who said, "O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?"
- A.
Julius
- B.
Caesar
- C.
Juliet
- D.
Mary Arden
Correct Answer
C. JulietExplanation
In William Shakespeare's play Romeo and Juliet, Juliet is the one who says the famous line, "O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?" This line is spoken by Juliet on her balcony, expressing her love and longing for Romeo, despite the fact that he is from the rival Montague family. The line is often misinterpreted as asking where Romeo is physically located, but in reality, Juliet is questioning why Romeo has to be a Montague, the one person she is forbidden to love.Rate this question:
-
- 5.
"To be or not to be" is a quote from:
- A.
King Lear
- B.
Richard III
- C.
Julius Caesar
- D.
Hamlet
Correct Answer
D. HamletExplanation
The quote "To be or not to be" is from the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare. It is spoken by the character Hamlet in his famous soliloquy in Act III, Scene I. In this soliloquy, Hamlet contemplates the meaning of life and the value of existence. The quote has become one of the most well-known and frequently quoted lines in all of Shakespeare's works.Rate this question:
-
- 6.
Where was Shakespeare born?
- A.
Italy
- B.
Venice
- C.
New York
- D.
Stratford-upon-Avon
Correct Answer
D. Stratford-upon-AvonExplanation
Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon. This is a well-known fact and is widely documented in historical records. Stratford-upon-Avon is a town in Warwickshire, England, and it is the birthplace of William Shakespeare. He was baptized on April 26, 1564, in the Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon. Shakespeare's birthplace has become a popular tourist attraction and is celebrated as the birthplace of one of the greatest playwrights in history.Rate this question:
-
- 7.
The movie Shakespeare in Love is a true story.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement that "The movie Shakespeare in Love is a true story" is false. Shakespeare in Love is a fictional movie that tells a fictional story about William Shakespeare. While it incorporates elements of Shakespeare's life and work, it is not based on true events. The movie is a work of fiction and should not be considered a true story.Rate this question:
-
- 8.
Which of the following words were invented by Shakespeare?
- A.
Assassination
- B.
Bump
- C.
Puke
- D.
Distort
Correct Answer(s)
A. Assassination
B. Bump
C. PukeExplanation
The words "Assassination," "Bump," and "Puke" were all indeed invented by Shakespeare. Shakespeare is known for his extensive contribution to the English language, having coined and popularized numerous words and phrases that are still in use today. "Assassination" was first used in his play Macbeth, while "Bump" and "Puke" can be found in his works as well. These words have since become part of the English lexicon and are widely recognized and used.Rate this question:
-
- 9.
"A horse! A horse! My kingdom of a horse!" is a quote from:
- A.
King Richard III
- B.
The Merchant of Venice
- C.
The Merry Wives of Windsor
- D.
As You Like it
Correct Answer
A. King Richard IIIExplanation
The quote "A horse! A horse! My kingdom for a horse!" is from the play King Richard III. In this scene, King Richard III is in battle and realizes that having a horse would greatly improve his chances of survival. He expresses his desperation and the value he places on a horse by exclaiming that he would give his entire kingdom in exchange for one. This quote has become one of the most famous lines from the play and is often used to highlight Richard III's desperation and downfall.Rate this question:
-
- 10.
"Men of few words are the best" is a quote from:
- A.
King Richard III
- B.
Henry King V
- C.
Measure for Measure
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. Henry King V -
- 11.
Shakespeare died on:
- A.
April 23, 1616
- B.
August 23, 1614
- C.
July 23, 1617
- D.
April 26, 1600
Correct Answer
A. April 23, 1616Explanation
William Shakespeare is believed to have died on April 23, 1616. The exact cause of his death is not definitively known, but it is widely accepted that he passed away on his birthday. While the specific details surrounding Shakespeare's life and death may have some uncertainties, the date of April 23, 1616, is the commonly recognized date of his death. His legacy as one of the greatest playwrights and poets in the English language continues to endure through his timeless works.Rate this question:
-
- 12.
Who was the ghost in Hamlet?
- A.
Claudius
- B.
Hamlet
- C.
King of Denmark
- D.
Queen of Denmark
Correct Answer
C. King of DenmarkExplanation
In Shakespeare's play Hamlet, the ghost is revealed to be the spirit of the late King of Denmark, Hamlet's father. The ghost appears to Hamlet and reveals that he was murdered by his brother, Claudius, who then married the Queen of Denmark and became the new king. The ghost's appearance and message serve as the catalyst for Hamlet's quest for revenge and the central conflict of the play.Rate this question:
-
- 13.
Who called William Shakespeare, "An upstart crow?"
- A.
Robert Laffan
- B.
Annat Jolianna
- C.
Robert Greene
- D.
Lucrence
Correct Answer
C. Robert GreeneExplanation
Robert Greene called William Shakespeare "An upstart crow." This statement refers to a historical incident where Greene, a contemporary playwright, criticized Shakespeare for his rising success and lack of formal education. The phrase "upstart crow" implies that Greene saw Shakespeare as an arrogant and unqualified newcomer to the theater scene. This insult highlights the rivalry and competition that existed among playwrights during Shakespeare's time.Rate this question:
-
- 14.
Which novel are Cassius, Portia, and Octavius the characters from?
- A.
King Lear
- B.
Julius Caesar
- C.
Much Ado About Nothing
- D.
The Merchant of Venice
Correct Answer
B. Julius CaesarExplanation
Cassius, Portia, and Octavius are characters from the play "Julius Caesar" by William Shakespeare. Cassius is a Roman senator and one of the main conspirators against Caesar, Portia is the wife of Brutus and is known for her loyalty and strength, and Octavius is Caesar's adopted son and one of the triumvirs who eventually becomes the emperor of Rome.Rate this question:
-
- 15.
"Cowards die many times before their deaths; the valiant never taste of death but once." This is an extract from:
- A.
King Lear
- B.
Hamlet
- C.
Julius Caesar
- D.
The Merchant of Venice
Correct Answer
C. Julius CaesarExplanation
This quote is from Julius Caesar. It reflects the idea that those who are cowardly experience fear and anxiety multiple times throughout their lives, while those who are brave and valiant only face death once. This quote highlights the themes of bravery, mortality, and the contrasting attitudes towards death in the play Julius Caesar.Rate this question:
-
- 16.
_____________ is Shakespeare's shortest play.
- A.
Antony and Cleopatra
- B.
Macbeth
- C.
Julius Caesar
- D.
The Comedy of Errors
Correct Answer
D. The Comedy of ErrorsExplanation
The correct answer is "The Comedy of Errors." This play is Shakespeare's shortest because it has the fewest number of lines and is also one of his earliest works. It is a farcical comedy that revolves around mistaken identities and misunderstandings, making it a fast-paced and light-hearted play.Rate this question:
-
- 17.
_____________ is Shakespeare's longest play.
- A.
Winter's Tale
- B.
Macbeth
- C.
Hamlet
- D.
The Comedy of Errors
Correct Answer
C. HamletExplanation
Hamlet is Shakespeare's longest play, consisting of approximately 4,042 lines. It is a tragedy that explores themes of revenge, madness, and the complexity of human nature. The play follows the story of Prince Hamlet, who seeks to avenge his father's murder. Hamlet's length allows for a deep exploration of its characters and their motivations, making it one of Shakespeare's most renowned works.Rate this question:
-
- 18.
Shakespeare was the father of ________ children.
- A.
1
- B.
2
- C.
3
- D.
4
Correct Answer
C. 3Explanation
The correct answer is 3 because it is stated that Shakespeare was the father of a specific number of children, and out of the given options, 3 is the only number that matches this statement.Rate this question:
-
- 19.
Shakespeare was one of the founding members of The Lord Chamberlain's Men.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Shakespeare being one of the founding members of The Lord Chamberlain's Men is true. This theater company, later known as the King's Men, was established in 1594 and Shakespeare was an important member. He not only acted in their productions but also wrote many of his famous plays for the company. The Lord Chamberlain's Men was one of the most prominent theater companies of its time, and Shakespeare's association with them played a significant role in his career as a playwright and actor.Rate this question:
-
- 20.
Which of the following statements are correct?
- A.
"If music be the food of love, play on..." is the opening line of The Comedy of Errors
- B.
"Shall I compare thee to a summer's day…" is an extract from Sonnet 18
- C.
Shakespeare was buried at Holy Trinity Church, Stratford
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer(s)
B. "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day…" is an extract from Sonnet 18
C. Shakespeare was buried at Holy Trinity Church, StratfordExplanation
The opening line of The Comedy of Errors is not "If music be the food of love, play on..." but rather "Aegeon. Proceed, Solinus, to procure my fall" which indicates that the statement is incorrect. On the other hand, "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day…" is indeed an extract from Sonnet 18 and Shakespeare was indeed buried at Holy Trinity Church, Stratford. Therefore, the correct answer is that "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day…" is an extract from Sonnet 18 and Shakespeare was buried at Holy Trinity Church, Stratford.Rate this question:
-
- 21.
Which of the following is reckoned as Shakespeare's first comedy?
- A.
The Comedy of Errors
- B.
All's Well That Ends Well
- C.
Much Ado About Nothing
- D.
Twelfth Night
Correct Answer
A. The Comedy of ErrorsExplanation
The Comedy of Errors is considered Shakespeare's first comedy because it was one of his earliest plays and follows the conventions of a comedic plot. The play revolves around mistaken identities and misunderstandings, resulting in humorous situations. Additionally, it incorporates elements of farce and slapstick comedy, which were typical of comedies during Shakespeare's time. The play's light-hearted tone, witty dialogue, and resolution with marriages also align with the characteristics of a comedy.Rate this question:
-
- 22.
Which of the following plays constitute Shakespeare's histories?
- A.
King Henry VIII
- B.
King John
- C.
Richard II
- D.
Richard III
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
E. All of the aboveExplanation
All of the plays mentioned in the options, King Henry VIII, King John, Richard II, and Richard III, are considered to be part of Shakespeare's histories. These plays depict events from English history and explore themes of power, politics, and the rise and fall of monarchs. Shakespeare's histories are known for their complex characters, intricate plots, and insightful commentary on the nature of leadership and governance. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above."Rate this question:
-
- 23.
Which of the following plays constitute Shakespeare's tragedies?
- A.
Timon of Athens
- B.
Titus Andronicus
- C.
Midsummer Night's Dream
- D.
Winter's Tale
Correct Answer(s)
A. Timon of Athens
B. Titus AndronicusExplanation
Timon of Athens and Titus Andronicus are both plays written by Shakespeare that are classified as tragedies. These plays explore themes of betrayal, revenge, and the downfall of their main characters. On the other hand, A Midsummer Night's Dream and Winter's Tale are classified as comedies because they have a lighter tone and typically end with a happy resolution. Therefore, the correct answer includes Timon of Athens and Titus Andronicus as Shakespeare's tragedies.Rate this question:
-
- 24.
Which of the following plays constitute Shakespeare's comedies?
- A.
Measure for Measure
- B.
Merchant of Venice
- C.
Merry Wives of Windsor
- D.
Coriolanus
Correct Answer(s)
A. Measure for Measure
B. Merchant of Venice
C. Merry Wives of WindsorExplanation
The plays Measure for Measure, Merchant of Venice, and Merry Wives of Windsor are considered Shakespeare's comedies because they all contain elements of humor, wit, and lightheartedness. These plays often feature mistaken identities, comedic misunderstandings, and humorous wordplay. On the other hand, Coriolanus is not a comedy but rather a tragedy, as it explores themes of power, politics, and betrayal.Rate this question:
-
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
-
Current Version
-
Mar 12, 2024Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Apr 05, 2008Quiz Created by
Mskoh
Back to top