English Literature MCQ – Change your future

16. "Under the green wood tree" is a song in:

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: B) As you like it.

Exam Relevance: GCSE English Literature

Difficulty: Very Easy

Concept notes: The song "Under the green wood tree" is associated with Shakespeare's play "As You Like It."

Common Mistakes: Students might confuse it with other Shakespearean plays that have songs.

Explanations: The song "Under the green wood tree" is performed by the character Audrey in Shakespeare's play "As You Like It." This play is set in the Forest of Arden, where the characters often sing and interact. The other plays listed do not contain this specific song.

Option Analysis:

Option A: "Love's Labour's Lost" does not include the song "Under the green wood tree."
Option B: "As You Like It" is the correct play where the song appears.
Option C: "A Midsummer Night's Dream" does not feature this song.
Option D: "Much Ado About Nothing" does not include the song "Under the green wood tree."

Mnemonic: Under the green wood tree, sing in the forest with B.

17. ..... novels are highly topical with sensational headlines of news dailies.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: C) Graham Greene's.

Exam Relevance: AQA GCSE English Literature, Cambridge IGCSE English Literature

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Graham Greene's novels are known for their topical nature, often incorporating sensational news headlines.

Common Mistakes: Misunderstanding the styles of other authors like Waugh or Snow.

Explanations: Graham Greene's novels are highly topical, often reflecting contemporary issues and incorporating sensational headlines from news dailies. This makes his works relevant and engaging to readers of his time.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Evelyn Waugh's novels are satirical and insightful but do not focus on sensational news headlines.
Option B: C.P. Snow's works focus on scientific and intellectual themes rather than topical news.
Option C: Graham Greene's novels are known for their topical nature, often incorporating sensational news headlines.
Option D: Anthony Powell's novels are introspective and focus on character development over time, not sensational news.

Mnemonic: Greene's Got the News

18. Is socially and sexually ambitious.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: A) Malvolio.

Exam Relevance: AP English Literature

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The question tests knowledge of character traits in Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night."

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing Malvolio's ambition with other characters' traits.

Explanations: Malvolio is socially and sexually ambitious, as seen in his pursuit of Olivia and his desire for power. Viola is not ambitious in this way; she is more focused on her disguise and love for Orsino. Maria is cunning but not ambitious in the same sense. Sebastian is a minor character with no such ambitions.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Malvolio is socially and sexually ambitious, as shown in his actions and desires.
Option B: Viola is not ambitious in this context; she is more about disguise and love.
Option C: Maria is clever but not ambitious in the same way.
Option D: Sebastian has no such ambitions.

Mnemonic: Malvolio's ambition malfunctions.

19. Which of the following best defines mysticism?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: C) The human soul's tendency towards intimate union with the divine.

Exam Relevance: AP English Literature and Composition

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Mysticism involves the pursuit of a direct, intimate connection with the divine or a higher power.

Common Mistakes: Misunderstanding mysticism as a literary genre or psychological concept.

Explanations: Mysticism is defined by the human soul's inclination toward achieving an intimate union with the divine. This concept is central to many spiritual traditions and is often explored in English literature through themes of transcendence and the search for deeper meaning.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Incorrect; refers to a psychological or philosophical concept, not mysticism.
Option B: Incorrect; describes a literary genre, not a spiritual concept.
Option C: Correct; accurately defines mysticism as the soul's tendency toward divine union.
Option D: Incorrect; describes the opposite of mysticism, which seeks separation rather than union.

Mnemonic: Mysticism: Mind Meets Mystery

20. Which of the following characterizes Modernism?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: D) The desire to break with established forms.

Exam Relevance: AP English Literature and Composition, Cambridge A Level English Literature.

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Modernism in English literature is defined by its rejection of traditional forms and conventions, embracing innovation and experimentation.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing Modernism with Realism, which focuses on realistic depictions rather than breaking with established forms.

Explanations: Modernism sought to break away from traditional structures and explore new forms of expression, often focusing on themes like alienation and the inner workings of characters' psyches.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Incorrect; Modernism rejected realistic forms in favor of experimental techniques.
Option B: Incorrect; Modernism opposed traditional formal structures, advocating for innovation.
Option C: Incorrect; Modernism was deeply interested in characters' psyches, often exploring their inner thoughts.
Option D: Correct; Breaking with established forms is a central characteristic of Modernism.

Mnemonic: Modernism: Break, Experiment, Innovate.

21. .....this may suffice, that not only the seed of Cham or Canaan, but any lawful Captives of other Heathen Nations may be made Bond men as hath been proved. ..... By all which it doth evidently appear both by Scripture and Reason, the practice of the People of God in all Ages, both before and after the giving of the Law, and in the times of the Gospel, that there were Bond men, Women and Children commonly kept by holy and good men, and improved in Service; and therefore by the Command of God, Lev. 25, 44, and their venerable Example, we may keep Bond men, and use them in our Service still; yet with all candour, moderation and Christian prudence, according to their state and condition consonant to the Word of God

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: A) John Saffin.

Exam Relevance: AP United States History (APUSH), GRE Subject Test in History

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The question tests knowledge of historical figures and their arguments regarding slavery, particularly those using religious and biblical justifications.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake might be confusing John Saffin with other Puritan leaders like John Winthrop, who focused more on governance and less on slavery justification.

Explanations: John Saffin was a Puritan minister and lawyer who defended slavery using biblical references, as seen in his works. His arguments were used to justify slavery in the colonies.

Option Analysis:

Option A: John Saffin wrote about slavery using biblical references, making him the correct author of the passage.
Option B: John Winthrop was a governor and religious leader, not known for writing about slavery.
Option C: Benjamin Franklin was a scientist and statesman, unrelated to religious slavery arguments.
Option D: Mayflower Compact was a governance agreement, unrelated to slavery justification.

Mnemonic: Saffin's Scriptural Slavery Support

22. All of the following are associated with Gothic architecture EXCEPT:

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: D) Neo-classicism.

Exam Relevance: GRE Subject Test in History, AP Art History

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Gothic architecture is defined by specific features and historical context.

Common Mistakes: Confusing Neo-classicism with Gothic architectural elements.

Explanations: Gothic architecture is associated with the Middle Ages, featuring vaulted ceilings and complex floor plans. Neo-classicism is a later, contrasting style.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Vaulted ceilings are a defining feature of Gothic architecture.
Option B: The Middle Ages is the period when Gothic architecture was prominent.
Option C: Complicated floor plans are characteristic of Gothic buildings.
Option D: Neo-classicism is a different architectural style, not associated with Gothic architecture.

Mnemonic: "Gothic: Vaults, Middle Ages, Complex Plans"

23. What did Henry whispered at the auction?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: D) I will run away, work and buy your freedom.

Exam Relevance: AP English Literature

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The question tests understanding of character motivation and thematic elements in the context of slavery and freedom.

Common Mistakes: Misunderstanding Henry's character or the thematic focus of the work could lead to incorrect answers.

Explanations: Henry's whispered words reflect his resolve to escape slavery and secure freedom, a central theme in the narrative.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Incorrect, as it does not reflect Henry's character or the auction context.
Option B: Incorrect, focuses on physical pain rather than freedom.
Option C: Incorrect, suggests violence, not Henry's approach.
Option D: Correct, aligns with Henry's determination to secure freedom.

Mnemonic: Henry's Hope: Run, Work, Buy Freedom.

24. As You Like It ends with which character addressing the audience directly?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: B) Rosalind.

Exam Relevance: SAT Subject Test in Literature, AP English Literature and Composition Exam

Difficulty: Very Easy

Concept notes: The play ends with Rosalind addressing the audience directly, a common Shakespearean technique.

Common Mistakes: Some might confuse Rosalind with other characters like Orlando or Touchstone, who do not have this role.

Explanations: In the final scene, Rosalind speaks directly to the audience, concluding the play and providing closure.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Duke Senior does not address the audience.
Option B: Rosalind addresses the audience directly.
Option C: Touchstone is a jester but does not address the audience at the end.
Option D: Orlando is a character in love with Rosalind but does not address the audience.

Mnemonic: No mnemonic.

25. Which is the single poem that brought fame and fortune to Edgar Allan Poe and is published in New York Evening Mirror in 1845?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: A) The Raven.

Exam Relevance: SAT Subject Test in Literature, AP English Literature and Composition Exam

Difficulty: Very Easy

Concept notes: The Raven is a famous poem by Edgar Allan Poe that brought him significant recognition and success.

Common Mistakes: Some might confuse it with other Poe poems like The Bells or Annabel Lee, which are also well-known but not the ones that made him famous.

Explanations: The Raven was published in 1845 and became an instant success, making Poe a household name. It is known for its melancholic tone and the refrain "Nevermore."

Option Analysis:

Option A: The Raven is correct because it was the poem that brought Poe fame and fortune.
Option B: Eldorado is incorrect because it is another poem by Poe but not the one that made him famous.
Option C: Annabel Lee is incorrect because, although it is a well-known poem, it was not the one that brought Poe fame.
Option D: The Bells is incorrect because it is another poem by Poe but not the one that made him famous.

Mnemonic: No mnemonic.

26. What does Faustus promise to the devil in exchange for great knowledge, riches and power for a period of 24 years?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: C) His soul.

Exam Relevance: AP English Literature

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: In "Doctor Faustus," Faustus exchanges his soul for 24 years of service from the devil.

Common Mistakes: Some might confuse the devil's interest in the soul with other tangible items like the body or house.

Explanations: Faustus promises his soul to the devil in exchange for knowledge, riches, and power for 24 years, as depicted in Marlowe's play.

Option Analysis:

Option A: The devil does not want Faustus's body.
Option B: The devil is not interested in Faustus's house.
Option C: The devil requires Faustus's soul as payment.
Option D: The devil does not seek Faustus's horse.

Mnemonic: Soul Swap for Power

27. What is Mrs.Reed to Jane Eyre by relationship?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: C) Maternal Aunt.

Exam Relevance: GCSE English Literature

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The relationship between Jane Eyre and Mrs. Reed is defined by their familial ties as aunt and niece.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing Mrs. Reed as a paternal aunt rather than maternal.

Explanations: Mrs. Reed is the wife of Jane's uncle, making her Jane's maternal aunt. This relationship is central to Jane's early life and her experiences at Gateshead.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Incorrect, as Mrs. Reed is not Jane's paternal aunt.
Option B: Incorrect, as Mrs. Reed is not Jane's cousin.
Option C: Correct, as Mrs. Reed is Jane's maternal aunt.
Option D: Incorrect, as Mrs. Reed is not Jane's sister.

Mnemonic: Mrs. Reed is Jane's maternal aunt, not paternal or cousin.

28. 'Lady Wishfort' is a character in:

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: D) The Way of the World.

Exam Relevance: AQA GCSE English Literature, Edexcel A-Level English Literature

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The question tests knowledge of characters in Restoration comedies.

Common Mistakes: Confusion between different Restoration comedies and their characters.

Explanations: Lady Wishfort is a central character in Congreve's "The Way of the World," known for her wit and manipulative nature. The other plays listed do not feature this character.

Option Analysis:

Option A: "All for Love" is by John Dryden and unrelated to Lady Wishfort.
Option B: "The Country Wife" by William Wycherley features different characters.
Option C: "The Provoked Wife" is another Wycherley play, not connected to Lady Wishfort.
Option D: Correct. Lady Wishfort is in "The Way of the World."

Mnemonic: Lady Wishfort in 'The Way of the World' is a witty and manipulative character, much like the world itself.

29. In the 1930s, younger writers such as W. H. Auden were more ..... but less ..... than older modernists such as Eliot and Pound

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Radical; inventive.

Exam Relevance: AP English Literature, Cambridge English Literature exams.

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The question examines the stylistic and ideological differences between younger and older modernist writers in the 1930s.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing the terms "radical" and "inventive" with other characteristics like popularity or anxiety.

Explanations: Younger writers like Auden were more radical in their approach, challenging traditional forms and themes. Older modernists such as Eliot and Pound were more established and known for their inventive use of language and form. This contrast highlights the generational shift in literary experimentation.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Incorrect because the focus is on stylistic traits, not popularity.
Option B: Incorrect because "brash" and "confident" do not accurately describe the contrast.
Option C: Correct because it captures the radical experimentation of younger writers and the inventive techniques of older modernists.
Option D: Incorrect because "anxious" and "haunting" do not fit the context of the comparison.

Mnemonic: No mnemonic.

30. Who ordered the felling of the trees?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: A) The poet's father

Exam Relevance: GCSE English Literature, AP English Literature and Composition

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The poem highlights the father's decision to cut down the trees, making him the one who ordered the felling.

Common Mistakes: Some might confuse the poet with the one making the decision, but the poem clearly attributes the order to the father.

Explanations: The poem's narrative centers on the father's decision to cut down the trees, which is a significant event in the story. The poet reflects on this action, but it is the father who makes the order.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct, as the father's decision is central to the poem's narrative.
Option B: Incorrect, the poet is the narrator, not the decision-maker.
Option C: Incorrect, tenants are not involved in the decision.
Option D: Incorrect, the city municipality is not mentioned in the poem.

Mnemonic: Father's Decision, Felled Trees

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10 thoughts on “English Literature MCQ - Set 2”

Mani January 4, 2020

You’re might me mistaken For this which poet called himself ” I awake one morning and found myself famous” The Answer is Shelley.

I think u might me mistaken
Anwar Ahmad January 4, 2020

Nice efforts
Anwar Ahmad January 6, 2020

Good practice method
Narinder Singh March 26, 2020

I need objective type questions
Anonymous June 3, 2020

Good practise method
Anonymous September 19, 2020

Lord Byron
Susil October 17, 2020

Great information. I like it.
Anonymous February 2, 2021

Byron
Anonymous September 12, 2021

Lord byron
Lucky November 19, 2022

very nice . its very usefull for us

10 thoughts on “English Literature MCQ - Set 2”

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