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English Literary History Flashcards
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English Literary History Flashcards
English Literary History Flashcards
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1
Question
What dual symbolism is associated with the season of spring in "The Canterbury Tales"?
Answer
Spring symbolizes earthly renewal and new beginnings, contrasting with the pilgrimage’s spiritual themes of penance and reflection.
2
Question
What are the central themes explored in Thomas More's 'Utopia'?
Answer
'Utopia' explores themes of justice, equality, social reform, communal property sharing, and the common good, critiquing contemporary social injustices.
3
Question
What does the gathering of diverse pilgrims at the Tabard Inn represent?
Answer
A microcosm of medieval society, highlighting social diversity and shared human experiences.
4
Question
What themes are explored in "The Miller's Tale" and how is its tone described?
Answer
Themes include marriage, infidelity, youth vs. age, and social satire, with a tone akin to a classic prankster movie full of humor.
5
Question
How did Elizabeth I manage religion and politics during her reign?
Answer
Elizabeth I established the Elizabethan Religious Settlement to create a broad state church accommodating various religions, reducing internal conflict. She managed threats from Catholic powers diplomatically and militarily, notably defeating the Spanish Armada.
6
Question
What were some key factors that fueled the Renaissance period in Europe?
Answer
Rediscovery of ancient texts, advancements in technology like the printing press, rise of cities facilitating trade and cultural exchange, and economic growth leading to the beginnings of a market economy.
7
Question
What was the significance of King James I’s belief in the divine right of kings?
Answer
He advocated for centralized authority, often clashing with Parliament, which sought greater power. His reign involved unpopular financial policies and religious repression, culminating in events like the Gunpowder Plot.
8
Question
Describe the test faced by Griselda in "The Clerk's Tale."
Answer
She endures suffering, including losing children and status, but remains faithful and virtuous throughout her hardships.
9
Question
Who was Geoffrey Chaucer and what were his contributions to English literature?
Answer
A 14th-century English poet and courtier who introduced new poetic forms, promoted the English language in literature, and innovated with accentual-syllabic meter.
10
Question
How do character names in "The Canterbury Tales" reflect mediaeval beliefs about identity?
Answer
Names often relate to professions, reflecting the mediaeval belief that occupation defined one’s identity.
11
Question
Who were the Vikings and what was their influence in England in the 9th century?
Answer
Vikings were sea people from Norway, Sweden, and Denmark (called 'Danes' by the English). They invaded England, leading to the Danelaw region under Viking control. They brought shipbuilding skills, warrior culture, and influenced English identity. Alfred the Great defended England successfully against them.
12
Question
How does the tone of "Beowulf" reflect its themes?
Answer
The tone is solemn, serious, and dignified, reflecting the gravity of its themes.
13
Question
What marked the end of the Tudor dynasty?
Answer
The Tudor dynasty ended with Elizabeth I's death in 1603, who left no heirs, and the English throne passed to King James VI of Scotland who became James I of England, starting the Stuart dynasty.
14
Question
How does Donne use imagery and tone in 'Batter My Heart'?
Answer
He uses violent and passionate imagery to convey the intense struggle for salvation, evoking a tone of urgency and deep emotional conflict.
15
Question
What is Stonehenge and which group is associated with its construction?
Answer
Stonehenge is a mysterious megalithic monument in the South West of England, dating back to the Neolithic period. It is associated with the Iberians, the earliest inhabitants who showed advanced architectural skill.
16
Question
Who was John Milton, and what was significant about his background?
Answer
John Milton was a 17th-century English poet born into a wealthy Puritan family. He had a classical education, traveled across Europe, and served as Secretary for Foreign Languages under Oliver Cromwell's government.
17
Question
What was the significance of monasteries in Anglo-Saxon England?
Answer
Monasteries became important cultural and educational centers, especially after the gradual conversion of Anglo-Saxon kingdoms to Christianity.
18
Question
Which verbs in the "Beowulf" extract emphasize Grendel's brutality?
Answer
"Grabbed," "mauled," "bit into," "bolted down," and "gorged" describe a violent and merciless attack.
19
Question
What themes are introduced in the excerpt from 'Paradise Lost' Book 1?
Answer
Themes of rebellion against divine authority, the consequences of hubris, temptation, morality, human choice, and hope for redemption are introduced through vivid imagery of the forbidden tree and the Fall.
20
Question
What types of plays did Shakespeare write and when?
Answer
From 1590-1596 he wrote historical dramas; between 1593-1600 he produced comedies; from 1595-1605 he wrote great tragedies, showcasing mastery over complex characters and themes.
21
Question
What is the poem Beowulf about and its literary importance?
Answer
Beowulf is the oldest surviving English epic, written in Old English around 700 AD. It tells of heroic deeds against monsters like Grendel, highlighting themes such as loyalty, courage, vengeance, and glory, offering insights into early Germanic warrior society.
22
Question
What defines the rhythmic pattern of the poem "Beowulf"?
Answer
The poem's rhythmic pattern is defined by alliteration.
23
Question
How did Shakespeare innovate the traditional love sonnet?
Answer
He addressed many sonnets to a young man instead of a woman, described the Dark Lady realistically, and explored darker aspects of human experience, social evils, politics, beauty, gender, and sexuality openly.
24
Question
What symbol is associated with the House of Lancaster and which with the House of York during the Wars of the Roses?
Answer
The House of Lancaster is symbolized by a red rose, and the House of York by a white rose.
25
Question
What is the main theme of Sonnet 18, and how is it expressed?
Answer
The theme is the immortalization of beauty through poetry. The beloved is compared to a summer’s day but declared more lovely and eternal because the poem preserves their beauty forever.
26
Question
What imagery opens the Prologue of "The Canterbury Tales"?
Answer
Vivid descriptions of April’s sweet showers piercing March’s drought, awakening nature, symbolizing rebirth and renewal.
27
Question
What are metaphysical conceits, and how does Donne use them in his poetry?
Answer
Metaphysical conceits are unusual, imaginative comparisons used to illustrate complex ideas. Donne uses them to create striking parallels, like catching a star, to explore themes of love and fidelity, requiring deep reader engagement.
28
Question
What is a key message from "The Wife of Bath's Tale"?
Answer
It challenges traditional views on gender and marriage, emphasizing female empowerment and the power of women.
29
Question
In the extract from "Beowulf," what impression does the description of Grendel create?
Answer
It creates a vivid and disturbing impression of Grendel’s brutality, mercilessness, and viciousness.
30
Question
What are some famous phrases attributed to Shakespeare?
Answer
Phrases include "break the ice," "wild-goose chase," and "the world’s mine oyster."