Why is The Importance of Being Earnest considered one of Wilde's most enduring works?
- A. Because it offers a deep and serious critique of society.
- B. Because it humorously exposes the flaws of the upper class.
- C. Because it captures the essence of Wilde's witty and satirical style.
- D. Because it reflects Wilde's deep personal struggles with society.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The play endures because it perfectly captures Wilde's witty and satirical style, making it a timeless critique of society. 'The Importance of Being Earnest' humorously exposes the flaws of the upper class, rather than offering a deep and serious critique of society (Choice A). While Wilde's personal struggles may have influenced his works, 'The Importance of Being Earnest' is more focused on societal critiques through wit and satire, rather than reflecting his personal struggles (Choice D). Although the play does humorously expose the flaws of the upper class, the main reason for its enduring popularity is its embodiment of Wilde's witty and satirical style (Choice B). Therefore, Choice C is the correct answer.
You may also like to solve these questions
Which of the statements reflect information that one could reasonably infer based on the author's tone?
- A. The author's tone is persuasive and aims to call the audience to action.
- B. The author's tone is passionate due to excitement over the subject and personal narrative.
- C. The author's tone is informative and exhibits interest in the subject of the study.
- D. The author's tone is somber, depicting some anger at the state of insect larvae.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Based on the author's tone in the excerpt, one can infer that the author's tone is informative. The author aims to educate the reader about the unique characteristics of insects, their habitats, and their life cycle. The tone is objective and descriptive, focusing on providing factual information rather than persuading or expressing passion or somberness. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because there is no evident attempt to persuade, show excitement, or express anger in the text. Instead, the author's primary focus is on providing detailed information about the topic.
The phrase 'labyrinths of lamplighted city' contains an example of what?
- A. Hyperbole
- B. Simile
- C. Metaphor
- D. Alliteration
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Alliteration.' The phrase 'labyrinths of lamplighted city' uses alliteration by repeating the 'l' sound, creating a rhythmic and vivid image of a city illuminated by lamps. Alliteration is the repetition of initial consonant sounds in neighboring words, and in this case, it enhances the description of the city in the reader's mind. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because there is no exaggeration (hyperbole), comparison using 'like' or 'as' (simile), or direct comparison without using 'like' or 'as' (metaphor) present in the phrase.
Why do some insects have a life cycle divided between water and air?
- A. To highlight the adaptability of these insects.
- B. To illustrate the different environmental challenges they face.
- C. To describe the process of metamorphosis in these insects.
- D. To show the evolutionary advantages of such a life cycle.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the life cycle of insects is divided between water and air to demonstrate the evolutionary advantages of this adaptation. Insects have evolved to inhabit both aquatic and aerial environments, allowing them to thrive in diverse conditions. Choice A is incorrect because the division between water and air in the life cycle does not solely highlight adaptability but also evolutionary strategies. Choice B is incorrect because the question focuses on the reason for the specific division in the life cycle, not on environmental challenges. Choice C is incorrect because while metamorphosis is part of the life cycle, it does not directly explain why it is divided between water and air.
What is the purpose of the subtitle 'A Trivial Comedy for Serious People' in the context of the play?
- A. To emphasize the seriousness of the social critique in the play.
- B. To downplay the seriousness of the play and present it as light-hearted.
- C. To reflect the trivial nature of the characters' concerns and lives.
- D. To highlight the absurdity of taking serious matters lightly.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The subtitle 'A Trivial Comedy for Serious People' in Oscar Wilde's play 'The Importance of Being Earnest' serves to reflect the trivial concerns of the characters and the superficiality of their lives. Wilde uses this subtitle to highlight the irony in portraying seemingly serious people who are preoccupied with trivial matters and appearances. Choice A is incorrect because the subtitle does not aim to emphasize the seriousness of the social critique but rather the triviality of the characters' lives. Choice B is incorrect as the subtitle doesn't downplay the seriousness of the play; instead, it juxtaposes the trivial with the serious. Choice D is incorrect because the subtitle does not aim to highlight the absurdity of taking serious matters lightly, but rather to underscore the triviality of the characters' concerns and behaviors.
According to the extract, which of the following statements most closely correlates with the definition of the term 'working man'?
- A. A working man is someone who is well versed in the workings of the soul.
- B. A working man is probably not involved in social activities due to the high physical demand of work.
- C. A working man is someone who earns wages in a traditional sense, often associated with the middle class.
- D. The working man historically transitions from the field to the factory and now to the screen.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: According to the extract, the term 'working man' refers to individuals who are actively employed and earn wages in a traditional sense. Charles Dickens emphasizes the importance of the working man having a share in the management of institutions designed for their benefit. This aligns with choice C, making it the correct answer. Choice A is incorrect as the extract does not mention anything about being well versed in the workings of the soul. Choice B is incorrect because the extract does not suggest that working men are not involved in social activities due to the physical demands of their work. Choice D is also incorrect as the extract does not focus on the historical transitions of the working man.