English 12B
Which excerpts from Beowulf accurately support the portrayal of Beowulf as a valiant but vain young hero?
"'Twas granted me, though, to pierce the monster with point of sword, with blade of battle: huge beast of the sea was whelmed by the hurly through hand of mine.", "Me thus often the evil monsters thronging threatened. With thrust of my sword, the darling, I dealt them due return!"
Which response most completely describes what a summary contains?
A summary contains all essential points in a text, and omits the opinions of the reader.
Which excerpts from The Canterbury Tales most clearly support the central idea that storytelling serves a purpose in a society?
"And well I know as you go on your way, You plan to tell some tales, to have some play. There won't be much amusement going on If everybody rides dumb as a stone. So as I said, I would propose a game To give you some diversion, that's the aim.", "Dame, if you will, I prayerfully request," The Pardoner said, "that just as you began Tell us your tale and do not spare a man And of your practice teach us younger men."
Which excerpts from Beowulf most clearly depict how the author uses stories from Beowulf's past to develop his character?
"Art thou that Beowulf, Breca's rival, who emulous swam on the open sea, when for pride the pair of you proved the floods, and wantonly dared in waters deep to risk your lives? No living man, or lief or loath, from your labor dire could you dissuade, from swimming the main. Ocean-tides with your arms ye covered, with strenuous hands the sea-streets measured, swam o'er the waters.", "And so it came that I killed with my sword nine of the nicors. Of night-fought battles ne'er heard I a harder 'neath heaven's dome, nor adrift on the deep a more desolate man! Yet I came unharmed from that hostile clutch, though spent with swimming. The sea upbore me, flood of the tide, on Finnish land, the welling waters. No wise of thee have I heard men tell such terror of falchions, bitter battle."
In "The Adventure of the Speckled Band," Helen Stoner comes to Sherlock Holmes for help with solving the mysterious death of her sister. Which options effectively depict Helen's motivation to come to Holmes for help with the case?
"But I have heard, Mr. Holmes, that you can see deeply into the manifold wickedness of the human heart. You may advise me how to walk amid the dangers which encompass me.", "Alas!" replied our visitor, "the very horror of my situation lies in the fact that my fears are so vague, and my suspicions depend so entirely upon small points, which might seem trivial to another, that even he to whom of all others I have a right to look for help and advice looks upon all that I tell him about it as the fancies of a nervous woman."
Which excerpts from Through the Looking Glass most accurately reflect Lewis Carroll's disdain for arbitrary rules?
"I don't know what you mean by your way," said the Queen: "all the ways about here belong to me. ...", At the next peg the Queen turned again, and this time she said, "Speak in French when you can't think of the English for a thing—turn out your toes as you walk—and remember who you are!"
Which excerpt from Gulliver's Travels most accurately depicts author Jonathan Swift's tone regarding the English government?
"I was demanded in the method prescribed by their laws; which was, to hold my right foot in my left hand, and to place the middle finger of my right hand on the crown of my head, and my thumb on the tip of my right ear." The ridiculousness of what Gulliver is asked to do is representative of the same in the English government.
Which excerpt from Robinson Crusoe most effectively conveys the repentant tone of the story through Crusoe's character?
"Now," said I, aloud, "my dear father's words are come to pass; God's justice has overtaken me, and I have none to help or hear me. I rejected the voice of Providence, which had mercifully put me in a posture or station of life wherein I might have been happy and easy; but I would neither see it myself nor learn to know the blessing of it from my parents. I left them to mourn over my folly, and now I am left to mourn under the consequences of it. I abused their help and assistance, who would have lifted me in the world, and would have made everything easy to me; and now I have difficulties to struggle with, too great for even nature itself to support, and no assistance, no help, no comfort, no advice." Then I cried out, "Lord, be my help, for I am in great distress."
Shall I find comfort, travel-sore and weak? Of labor you shall find the sum. Will there be beds for me and all who seek? Yea, beds for all who come. Which responses clearly explain why the lines support the central idea that there is a reward in the afterlife for people's work in this life?
"Of labor you shall find the sum" means that everything people have worked for will be in heaven., "Yea, beds for all who come" means that rest will be given to all who enter heaven.
Which excerpt most effectively reveals how the author develops the rising action through the description of setting in Beowulf?
"Then was this mead-house at morning tide dyed with gore, when the daylight broke, all the boards of the benches blood-besprinkled, gory the hall: I had heroes the less, doughty dear-ones that death had reft."
In "The Adventure of the Speckled Band," Sherlock Holmes discovers who killed Helen Stoner's sister. Which option most effectively explains Holmes's belief that no wrong deeds will go unpunished?
"Violence does, in truth, recoil upon the violent, and the schemer falls into the pit which he digs for another."
In The Canterbury Tales, all the pilgrims share their stories, which describe some form of conflict. In "The Wife of Bath's Tale," the Knight faces many conflicts as he attempts to make up for assaulting a young woman. Which excerpt most effectively reveals the main conflict in the Knight's story?
"You can't be sure if you're to live or not. I'll grant you life if you can tell me what It is that women most desire. Beware The iron ax, your neckbone now to spare! And if you cannot tell me right away, I'll give you leave, a twelvemonth and a day, That you may go to seek, that you might find An answer that is of sufficient kind."
Which response most accurately states the definition of theme?
A story's theme is the central message or universal truth that the author conveys through the characters and plot.
Anthony sprinted from the parking lot, tightening his tie as he ran. Here he was, about to have his first job interview, and he was late! He pushed open the door and almost dashed through. However, he saw a man appear at the corner. The man had white hair and was walking with a cane. Anthony knew the seconds were ticking by, and he was getting later and later, but he felt bad thinking of letting the door close before the man reached it. Trying not to check his watch, he opened the door wide and waited while the man walked slowly through. Anthony speed-walked through the office, around a corner, and toward the receptionist. She smiled when he introduced himself and said, "Welcome. Your interviewer, Mr. Bryce, is a few minutes late himself. He should be here in a moment." Just then, the white-haired man walked around the corner. The receptionist said, "Oh, good morning, Mr. Bryce!" Mr. Bryce smiled at her and said to Anthony, "You must be Anthony. I noticed you were so considerate earlier, when you held the door for me. You're certainly making a good first impression. Let's begin your interview." Which responses most effectively identify a theme of this short story?
A theme of this short story is that you should always choose to behave with courtesy because you never know how someone you encounter might be involved in your future., A theme of this short story is that if you put people's needs ahead of your own, others will take notice and will respect you for your compassionate behavior.
In The Tempest, all the characters have desires they wish to fulfill. Which lines accurately show how the characters' desires move the plot forward?
ARIEL Is there more toil? Since thou dost give me pains, Let me remember thee what thou hast promised, Which is not yet performed me. PROSPERO Go make thyself like a nymph o' th' sea. Be subject to no sight but thine and mine, invisible To every eyeball else. Go take this shape, And hither come in 't. Go; hence with diligence!
Which response most clearly explains how to change the noun peril, meaning "danger," to an adjective meaning "dangerous"?
Add the suffix -ous to create the adjective perilous.
"She had a considerable sum of money—not less than £1000 a year—and this she bequeathed to Dr. Roylott entirely while we resided with him, with a provision that a certain annual sum should be allowed to each of us in the event of our marriage." Which option uses the word bequeathed as it is used in this excerpt?
After reading her brother's will, Jennifer learned that he had bequeathed the ancient family house to her.
By the same computation, they provided me with sheets, blankets, and coverlets, tolerable enough for one who had been so long inured to hardships. Based on the context provided by this sentence, which sentence correctly uses the word inured?
After several unsuccessful confrontations with her supervisor, Sandra became inured to his harsh treatment in order to keep her job.
Which sentences use the word allay correctly?
After spending the day at the lake without sunscreen, John rushed to the local convenience store for aloe gel to allay the pain of his sunburn., Juggling work, school, and family responsibilities was beginning to weigh heavily on Andrew. He knew that if he dedicated several hours to his project, he would allay most of his anxieties.
Algernon. I really don't see anything romantic in proposing. It is very romantic to be in love. But there is nothing romantic about a definite proposal. Why, one may be accepted. One usually is, I believe. Then the excitement is all over. The very essence of romance is uncertainty. If ever I get married, I'll certainly try to forget the fact. Which response most clearly explains how Algernon expresses his overall opinion about marriage?
Algernon uses irony in this excerpt, as he explains that the entire foundation of marriage, which is commitment, is the very aspect that makes marriage unromantic.
It certainly was a very large Gnat: "about the size of a chicken," Alice thought. Still, she couldn't feel nervous with it, after they had been talking together so long. Which options most accurately explain what the excerpt implies about Alice's perspective?
Alice is unfazed by the size of the Gnat, which shows that she has not fully comprehended the oddness of the place in which she finds herself., Alice is committed to liking the Gnat despite his large size because she feels that their conversation has made them friends.
Which response most accurately defines an archetype?
An archetype is a character, situation, or symbol that commonly occurs in literature and represents universal patterns or characteristics.
Which lines from "The Chimney Sweeper" (Songs of Innocence) most accurately portray the innocent, naïve perspective of the child speaker?
And so Tom awoke, and we rose in the dark, And got with our bags and our brushes to work. Though the morning was cold, Tom was happy and warm: So, if all do their duty, they need not fear harm.
Which lines from "The Chimney Sweeper" (Songs of Innocence) most clearly show the interaction of the real-life setting and the characters of the poem?
And so Tom awoke, and we rose in the dark, And got with our bags and our brushes to work. Though the morning was cold, Tom was happy and warm: So, if all do their duty, they need not fear harm.
Which responses most accurately identify a theme of Beowulf?
Anyone can boast in a time of safety, but only the strongest can live up to those boasts in times of danger., It is noble to help others when they are in great need, and doing so may create a special bond.
For members of many rural African tribes, the shortage of sanitary water is the bane of their existence. In many rural African tribal settlements, the shortage of sanitary water is a menace to everyone. Which response most clearly analyzes the difference between the meanings of bane and menace?
Bane implies that a shortage of clean water is a severe and harmful problem, while menace implies that the problem is a threat but not necessarily catastrophic.
"He calls me DEAR Rebecca," said the maiden to herself, "but it is in the cold and careless tone which ill suits the word. His war-horse—his hunting hound, are dearer to him than the despised Jewess!" Through her words, Rebecca conveys how Ivanhoe despises her. Why does Ivanhoe treat Rebecca so badly, causing her to compare herself to a "war-horse" and a "hunting hound"?
Because of Rebecca's religious background, Ivanhoe feels that she, being Jewish, is far less a person than himself, being Christian.
Which response most effectively describes the interaction between two central ideas in Beowulf?
Beowulf has an opportunity to return a favor to King Hrothgar by killing Grendel, and if he does, Hrothgar will make him an honored member of his house.
Which option most accurately demonstrates how poet William Blake views the practice of forced child labor in "The Chimney Sweeper" (Songs of Experience)?
Blake is outraged by the fact that families allow and encourage child labor.
"No, no, no," she said vehemently. "I'm quite safe, and quite happy now. If you are a gentleman, remember your promise. Let him drive on till I stop him. Thank you—oh! thank you, thank you!" Which responses accurately explain ways that a student who did not know the word vehemently could determine its meaning?
Brainstorm other words, like "forcefully" or "emphatically," that would make sense in the sentence., Analyze its suffix, -ly, to determine that it is an adverb describing how the woman spoke.
A body of England's, breathing English air, Washed by the rivers, blest by suns of home. Which responses accurately explain the author's purpose in using the words "Washed by the rivers, blest by suns of home"?
Brooke uses simple, beautiful phrasing to further emphasize the pure goodness of England., Brooke shows that wherever the soldier is, he carries traces of his English upbringing with him.
The land's sharp features seemed to be The Century's corpse outleant, His crypt the cloudy canopy, The wind his death-lament. The ancient pulse of germ and birth Was shrunken hard and dry, And every spirit upon earth Seemed fervourless as I. Which options accurately state strategies a student can use to infer the meaning of the word fervourless?
By using context clues like "death-lament" and "shrunken hard and dry," a student can assume that fervourless likely means "lacking warmth or feeling.", By adding the suffix -less to the root word fervour, which means "great passion and enthusiasm," a student can assume that fervourless likely means "lacking warmth or feeling."
Cathy promised Jordan that when she went to court she would not disclose any information about his involvement with the burglary. She knew he was remorseful for his crime and she was afraid that he would be angry with her if she got him in trouble. When she stood in front of the judge, she took an oath that her testimony was true. Crossing her fingers behind her back, Cathy willingly told a lie to protect her friend. However, her false statements were obvious to the judge and jury, and Cathy found herself in a mess of legal trouble because of her perjury. What information from the paragraph most effectively indicates the meaning of perjury?
Cathy willingly told a lie, she took an oath that her testimony was true
The third day Christ arose from out the grave, For three nights having suffered death for us, He, Lord of angels, he in whom alone Is hope of overcoming. Far and wide The tidings spread, like perfume fresh and sweet, Through all the world. Which response most accurately infers the meaning of this passage?
Christ's power exceeds the power of death.
Which options most accurately define denotation and connotation?
Connotation is the feeling or idea associated with a word or phrase., Denotation is the literal meaning of a word or phrase.
The tangled bine-stems scored the sky Like strings from broken lyres, And all mankind that haunted nigh Had sought their household fires. Which option accurately uses the word scored as it is used in this sentence?
Cracks scored the concrete sidewalk, forcing the boys to skateboard carefully to school.
Which option most effectively explains how the desert island setting in Robinson Crusoe helps develop the character of Crusoe?
Crusoe is alone in a remote, unfamiliar place where he must build a life from scratch; this reveals him to be resourceful and hardworking.
Which options most effectively show how Crusoe's physical experiences in Robinson Crusoe are an allegory for his spiritual life?
Crusoe's physical and spiritual journeys both involve suffering followed by salvation., Crusoe's illness is literal and physical, but it reflects the spiritual struggle he is undergoing.
Even though Bill had asked Ana to dinner, he was not sure what sort of cuisine she would like. She had told him a number of times that she just simply loved food, period. Based on the context provided by the passage, which sentence correctly defines the word cuisine?
Cuisine is a specific style of cooking, for example, Thai or Italian.
Which sentence most effectively uses the word vestige?
Despite the people's best efforts at survival, no vestige of their community remained following detonation of the bomb.
No living man, or lief or loath, from your labor dire could you dissuade, from swimming the main. Ocean-tides with your arms ye covered, with strenuous hands the sea-streets measured, swam o'er the waters. Which response most accurately explains how a student who did not know the meaning of dissuade could determine its meaning?
Dissuade has the same root as persuade, which means "to convince," and has the prefix dis-, which means "opposite of."
Which excerpts from Physiologus most effectively support the portrayal of Satan's dwelling as having a monstrous and menacing atmosphere?
Donning the mystic helm Of darkness, with his prey he speeds to hell, The place devoid of good—all misty gloom, Where broods a sullen lake, black, bottomless., Straight to the bottom deep he drags his prey; He, guest of ocean, in his watery haunts Drowns ships and men, and fast imprisons them Within the halls of death.
In "The Adventure of the Speckled Band," Dr. Grimesby Roylott murders one of his stepdaughters and almost succeeds in murdering the second. Which option most accurately explains Dr. Roylott's motive?
Dr. Roylott will lose money when his stepdaughters marry.
Read the sentence and then use a print or digital dictionary to look up the word emulate. DJ likes to invent her own recipes, but she always tries to emulate her mom's masterful cooking techniques in her own kitchen. How does the word emulate function in the sentence, and what does it mean?
Emulate functions as a verb, and it means "to imitate someone or something that one admires."
Which passage from Through the Looking Glass most accurately depicts the use of understatement? Through the Looking Glass
Everyone seemed satisfied with this, though Alice felt a little nervous at the idea of trains jumping at all.
Jackson looked left and right at the intersection. Then he checked both left and right again before driving the car across the street. "You sure are a fastidious driver," Ryan said. Jackson looked right at Ryan. "I prefer meticulous, not fastidious. That's probably why I passed my test the first time and you still don't have a license." Which response most clearly compares the effects of the words fastidious and meticulous in this scenario?
Fastidious makes Jackson sound painstakingly strict, but meticulous makes Jackson sound careful and safe.
As they need less woolen cloth than is used anywhere else, so that which they make use of is much less costly; they use linen cloth more, but that is prepared with less labor, and they value cloth only by the whiteness of the linen or the cleanness of the wool, without much regard to the fineness of the thread. While in other places four or five upper garments of woolen cloth of different colors, and as many vests of silk, will scarce serve one man, and while those that are nicer think ten too few, every man there is content with one, which very often serves him two years; nor is there anything that can tempt a man to desire more, for if he had them he would neither be the warmer nor would he make one jot the better appearance for it. Which option best identifies More's perspective about social equality within Utopian society?
Focusing on the practicality of objects, rather than their appearance, can help to reduce excess and vanity in a society.
Which lines from the poem "Gawayne and the Green Knight: A Fairy Tale" most clearly depict a serene setting that contrasts with the story's main action?
For all the Table Round were back again, At peace with God and with their fellow-men. Their shields hung idly on the pictured wall; Their blood-stained banners decked the festal hall., Now daylight faded, and the twilight gloom Deepened the stillness in the vaulted room, Save where upon the hearth a fitful glow Blushed from the embers as the fire burned low.
Bob said, "I have several strong subjects in school, but social studies is my absolute forte. I always raise my hand in class, and my instructor often asks me to tutor others after school." Which response most clearly explains how a student could determine the meaning of forte based on context clues in the paragraph?
Forte means a strength or a specialty because the speaker implies that he is better at social studies than his other "strong subjects."
Read the excerpt from Beowulf. Boasted full oft, as my beer they drank, earls o'er the ale-cup, armed men, that they would bide in the beer-hall here, Grendel's attack with terror of blades. Then was this mead-house at morning tide dyed with gore, when the daylight broke, all the boards of the benches blood-besprinkled, gory the hall: I had heroes the less, doughty dear-ones that death had reft. Which option most effectively depicts the explicit meaning of this excerpt?
Grendel, the monster, completely overcame the people in the mead-house. Its halls were smeared with blood and the men were killed.
Which option most accurately describes how Gulliver regards the emperor and his people?
Gulliver respects them, though he knows that he is more powerful.
Which option most accurately explains how the conflict Gulliver faces develops through the plot of Gulliver's Travels?
Gulliver works to gain his freedom by convincing the Lilliputians not to fear him and simultaneously gaining their trust.
Which is the most accurate definition of ambiguity?
a condition of being unclear or lacking one specific meaning
Shall I find comfort, travel-sore and weak? Of labor you shall find the sum. Will there be beds for me and all who seek? Yea, beds for all who come. Which response most clearly explains the speaker's views expressed in the lines?
Heaven is a place where people can rest, and there is room for anyone who travels there.
He was darting his spear upon a man, who lay under the feet of the horse, and who held up one hand in a supplicating attitude. Which sentences use the word supplicating in the same way it is used in this sentence? (Select all that apply.)
His English teacher was more irate than she had ever been previously, and the student made a heartfelt apology in a supplicating voice in the hope that she would not call the principal., The robber was exhausted after running from the crime scene, and he gave the police officer a supplicating look as he slowly lowered his weapon and said that he didn't want to go to jail.
Steve asked his mother if he could invite several of his friends to join them for his father's birthday celebration. His mom declined his request, but Steve understood her decision. After all, it was her prerogative to say no because it was her husband's party and she had spent many hours organizing the event. Which words from the paragraph most effectively help indicate the meaning of the word prerogative as it is used in the passage?
His mom declined his request, she had spent many hours organizing the event
"By the soul of Hereward!" replied the knight impatiently, "thou speakest, maiden, of thou knowest not what. Thou wouldst quench the pure light of chivalry, which alone distinguishes the noble from the base, the gentle knight from the churl and the savage; which rates our life far, far beneath the pitch of our honor; raises us victorious over pain, toil, and suffering, and teaches us to fear no evil but disgrace. Thou art no Christian, Rebecca; and to thee are unknown those high feelings which swell the bosom of a noble maiden when her lover hath done some deed of emprise which sanctions his flame." What do Ivanhoe's words reveal about the disparity he perceives between Rebecca's and his religious beliefs?
His words reveal his feelings that Rebecca could never understand the importance of nobility, honor, and glory because she is not a Christian.
Which excerpt from Beowulf most clearly supports the theme that great leaders honor those who serve them?
Hrothgar to Beowulf, bade him hail, let him wield the wine hall: a word he added:— "Never to any man erst I trusted, since I could heave up hand and shield, this noble Dane-Hall, till now to thee. Have now and hold this house unpeered; remember thy glory; thy might declare; watch for the foe! No wish shall fail thee if thou bidest the battle with bold-won life."
Which sentence correctly uses the word conjectured?
I conjectured that it would take at least another hour for me to drive home, based on the density of the traffic that loomed on the freeway.
Which lines from The Faerie Queene most clearly support the inference that the Redcrosse knight's recovery is a religious analogy?
I wote not, whether the revenging steel Were hardened with that holy water dew, Wherein he fell, or sharper edge did feel, Or his baptized hands now greater grew; Or other secret virtue did ensue. ..., For unto life the dead it could restore, And guilt of sinful crimes clean wash away, Those that with sickness were infected sore It could recure, and aged long decay Renew, as one were born that very day.
Which lines from a Shakespearean sonnet best exemplify the use of hyperbole?
If this be error and upon me proved, / I never writ, nor no man ever loved.
Which quotes from Utopia most clearly support the central idea that breaking the law is a direct result of a society's failure to establish fair systems of ruling?
If you do not find a remedy to these evils it is a vain thing to boast of your severity in punishing theft, which, though it may have the appearance of justice, yet in itself is neither just nor convenient; for if you suffer your people to be ill-educated, and their manners to be corrupted from their infancy, and then punish them for those crimes to which their first education disposed them, what else is to be concluded from this but that you first make thieves and then punish them?, 'There was no reason to wonder at the matter, since this way of punishing thieves was neither just in itself nor good for the public; for, as the severity was too great, so the remedy was not effectual; simple theft not being so great a crime that it ought to cost a man his life; no punishment, how severe soever, being able to restrain those from robbing who can find out no other way of livelihood.'
Which option provides an accurate definition of the terms implicit meaning and explicit meaning?
Implicit meaning is comprehensible even though it is not directly stated. Explicit meaning is clear and is expressed directly without vagueness.
"Walk two blocks south—" began Megan, but Chantelle cut in. "Actually, it's two blocks north," said Chantelle. "Hey, stop interrupting!" said Megan. "I was interjecting," answered Chantelle. Which response most accurately explains why Chantelle said she was interjecting, rather than interrupting?
Interjecting and interrupting have similar denotations, but interjecting has a more helpful connotation.
The bell rang, and Jordan and Moira left Social Studies together. "Ms. Murray asked you so many questions today in her lecture!" said Jordan. "Asked? She interrogated me about the Constitutional Convention!" exclaimed Moira. Which response most clearly explains why Moira said that Ms. Murray interrogated her?
Interrogated has an intense, scary connotation that shows that Moira felt nervous as she answered the questions.
Read the lines from the poem "Gawayne and the Green Knight: A Fairy Tale." Quoth Elfinhart: "I'd like to see you do it!" She laughed a gay laugh, but by hard constraint: Then turned and hid her face, all pale and faint, As one might be who stabs and turns the knife In the warm heart of one more dear than life. She turned and Gawayne saw not; but he heard, And felt his heart-strings tighten at her word. "Nay, lady, if you wish it I will try; Be your least wish my will, although I die! Yet one thing, if I may, I fain would ask, Before I make the venture;—if this task Prove fateful as it threatens,—do you care?" "Perhaps," said Elfinhart, "you do not dare!" Lightly she laughed, and scoffing tossed her head, Yet spoke as one who knew not what she said, With random words, and with quick-taken breath; Then turned again, ere that same look of death Should steal upon her and betray her heart Despite all stratagems of woman's art. Which response most accurately describes the mystery behind Lady Elfinhart's motivations?
It remains unclear whether Lady Elfinhart urged Sir Gawayne to accept the Green Knight's challenge because she was attracted to the Green Knight instead of Sir Gawayne, or if she felt that she needed to encourage the cultural norms of chivalry.
Which excerpt from Robinson Crusoe most accurately demonstrates how plot functions to transform Crusoe's character?
June 21.—Very ill; frighted almost to death with the apprehensions of my sad condition—to be sick, and no help. Prayed to God, for the first time since the storm off Hull, but scarce knew what I said, or why, my thoughts being all confused.
Golbasto Momaren Evlame Gurdilo Shefin Mully Ully Gue, most mighty Emperor of Lilliput...monarch of all monarchs, taller than the sons of men; whose feet press down to the centre, and whose head strikes against the sun; at whose nod the princes of the earth shake their knees. Which option most accurately explains how the emperor's inflated view of himself represents Jonathan Swift's views of society?
Just as the emperor believes himself to be more powerful than he is, Swift believes that modern society also has false ideas of its own power and importance.
He claims that he bears no malice toward anyone, but he spent all his energy making everyone's vacation stressful and frustrating. How does the word malice function in the sentence and what does it mean?
Malice functions as a noun, and it means "a desire to cause harm."
PROSPERO I have bedimmed The noontide sun, called forth the mutinous winds. And 'twixt the green sea and the azured vault Set roaring war: to the dread rattling thunder Have I given fire, and rifted Jove's stout oak With his own bolt; the strong-based promontory Have I made shake, and by the spurs plucked up The pine and cedar: graves at my command Have waked their sleepers, oped, and let 'em forth By my so potent art. Which words from the excerpt most effectively indicate the meaning of mutinous?
Set roaring war
Deep in conversation, Mark and Jesse meandered down the road. Which response most clearly distinguishes the denotative and connotative meanings of the word meandered in this sentence?
Meandered has a denotation of "walked," and has a connotation of relaxation, showing that the boys are more focused on the conversation than on where they are going.
Which options accurately explain how the "General Prologue" of The Canterbury Tales sets up the rest of the narrative?
The "General Prologue" introduces all the characters who will have roles in the pilgrims' tales., The "General Prologue" functions as a frame narrative for the pilgrims' tales.
"I am a realist, and if elected student body president, I will keep my promises to you," Ellyse said to the students in the auditorium. "So I won't tell you that we'll get a new soccer field, like my opponent said, because that's impossible. But if you vote for me, I will establish a monthly student-teacher school culture committee. That's the truth." Which response most accurately distinguishes between the denotative and connotative meanings of the word realist?
The denotation of realist is "someone who understands the world accurately," and the connotation is that she is reliable and effective.
It was a wild night. The wind was howling outside, and the rain was beating and splashing against the windows. Suddenly, amid all the hubbub of the gale, there burst forth the wild scream of a terrified woman. I knew that it was my sister's voice. Which option most accurately explains how the storm is relevant to the story?
The storm foreshadows the devastation and despair Helen experiences following the death of her sister, Julia.
But the time appointed for labor is to be narrowly examined, otherwise you may imagine that since there are only six hours appointed for work, they may fall under a scarcity of necessary provisions: but it is so far from being true that this time is not sufficient for supplying them with plenty of all things, either necessary or convenient, that it is rather too much; and this you will easily apprehend if you consider how great a part of all other nations is quite idle. First, women generally do little, who are the half of mankind; and if some few women are diligent, their husbands are idle: then consider the great company of idle priests, and of those that are called religious men; add to these all rich men, chiefly those that have estates in land, who are called noblemen and gentlemen, together with their retainers, made up of idle persons, that are kept more for show than use; add to these all those strong and lusty beggars that go about pretending some disease in excuse for their begging; and upon the whole account you will find that the number of those by whose labors mankind is supplied is much less than you perhaps imagined. What option most accurately identifies More's perspective about division of labor?
More criticizes and exposes the corruption of a social hierarchy that allows the lower class to labor for the benefit of privileged few.
Which option most accurately uses the word defray?
My mom told me that I would need to help defray the costs of the car repairs following the accident. It would be tough, but I knew I was at fault for running the red light.
William Blake, author of "The Chimney Sweeper" (Songs of Innocence), chooses to narrate this poem from the point of view of the child chimney sweeper. Which options most effectively demonstrate the implied meaning of using the child's perspective in this poem?
Narration from the child's perspective is used to generate feelings of pity and compassion in the reader., Narration from the child's perspective is used to reveal the child's lack of knowledge about the true extent of his own exploitation.
Such are the true facts of the death of Dr. Grimesby Roylott, of Stoke Moran. It is not necessary that I should prolong a narrative which has already run to too great a length by telling how we broke the sad news to the terrified girl, how we conveyed her by the morning train to the care of her good aunt at Harrow, of how the slow process of official inquiry came to the conclusion that the doctor met his fate while indiscreetly playing with a dangerous pet. Which option most accurately explains what the excerpt implies about the official investigation into Dr. Roylott's death?
No one told the police what really happened at the house, so the officials focused on Dr. Roylott's death, and not on his involvement in his stepdaughter's death.
Which descriptions from characters in The Tempest most effectively add a sinister tone to the play?
PROSPERO Thou best know'st What torment I did find thee in. Thy groans Did make wolves howl, and penetrate the breasts Of ever-angry bears: it was a torment To lay upon the damned, which Sycorax Could not again undo: it was mine art, When I arrived and heard thee, that made gape The pine, and let thee out. ARIEL Not a soul But felt a fever of the mad, and played Some tricks of desperation. All but mariners Plunged in the foaming brine, and quit the vessel, Then all afire with me. The King's son, Ferdinand, With hair upstaring—then like reeds, not hair — Was the first man that leaped; cried, 'Hell is empty, And all the devils are here.'
Which response most clearly explains the purpose of pacing within a work of fiction?
Pacing allows the author to speed up or slow down the narrative, which helps direct the reader's attention to certain elements of the plot and create suspense.
PROSPERO Now the condition. This King of Naples, being an enemy To me inveterate, hearkens my brother's suit; Which was, that he, in lieu o' the premises, Of homage and I know not how much tribute, Should presently extirpate me and mine Out of the dukedom, and confer fair Milan, With all the honours, on my brother: whereon, A treacherous army levied, one midnight Fated to the purpose, did Antonio open The gates of Milan; and, i' the dead of darkness, The ministers for the purpose hurried thence Me and thy crying self. Based on the excerpt, which option most accurately depicts what Prospero thinks about his brother Antonio?
Prospero despises his brother because Antonio let greed and desire for a noble title brainwash him so that he lost sight of the importance of honor and family relations.
PROSPERO 'Tis time I should inform thee farther. Lend thy hand, And pluck my magic garment from me.—So: [Lays down his mantle.] Lie there, my art. Wipe thou thine eyes; have comfort. The direful spectacle of the wreck, which touch'd The very virtue of compassion in thee, I have with such provision in mine art So safely order'd, that there is no soul, No, not so much perdition as an hair Betid to any creature in the vessel Which thou heard'st cry, which thou saw'st sink. Sit down; For thou must now know farther. Which responses most clearly illustrate how Prospero's description of Miranda's emotional state establishes the tone of the passage?
Prospero's acknowledgement of Miranda's emotions portrays a compassionate and reassuring tone, as he desires to ease her sorrow., Prospero's acknowledgment of Miranda's emotions portrays a calm and thoughtful tone, as he desires to quiet her mind.
Which options most effectively describe how pacing in Robinson Crusoe helps show the growth of Crusoe's character?
Quick, factual accounts of daily work evolve into longer, more philosophical analysis of Crusoe's past misdeeds and relationship with God, showing Crusoe's spiritual rebirth after falling ill., Efficient, businesslike accounts of events develop into expansive, dramatic examinations of self, showing Crusoe becoming more introspective and emotional.
Which response best explains how affixes change the word cacophonous to another part of speech?
Replacing the suffix -ous with the suffix -y creates the noun cacophony.
Which sentence uses the word sonorous correctly?
The sound of my professor's deep, sonorous voice eventually made me doze off in class.
Which response most accurately defines the term sarcasm?
Sarcasm is using mockery or irony as a way of conveying contempt or dislike.
Which sentence uses the word taciturn correctly?
Sasha's uncle was usually reserved and taciturn, so the family was quite surprised when he talked animatedly all through dinner.
Such is the way Of demons, devils' wiles: to hide their power, And stealthily inveigle heedless men, Inciting them against all worthy deeds, And luring them to seek for help and comfort From unsuspected foes, until at last They choose a dwelling with the faithless one. Which response most accurately describes how Satan baits his victims, based on this evidence?
Satan deceives his victims by tricking them into blindly believing his lies and following in his path.
Which response most accurately defines the term satire?
Satire is the use of humor or ridicule to expose the foolishness or shortcomings of people or society.
Which option most accurately defines satire?
Satire is the use of literary techniques, such as humor or irony, to expose the foolishness of others.
Which sentence correctly uses the word voracious?
Sharon's voracious appetite for chocolate was satisfied only after she consumed the entire plate of cake.
In the excerpt from Ivanhoe, Ivanhoe conveys to Rebecca his beliefs about the meaning of chivalry and glory in battle. Which option most appropriately describes Rebecca's response to these ideas?
She contends that his ideas are only reasons for bloodshed and violence and that knighthood is meaningless.
In the "Wife of Bath's Tale," the old woman reminds the knight that he promised to grant any request she made. Read the excerpt in which the knight replies. "My love?" he said. "No, rather my damnation! Alas! that there is any of my nation Who ever could so foully be disgraced." But all for naught, the end was that he faced Constrainment, for he now would have to wed And take his gray old wife with him to bed. Based on this excerpt, which option most effectively explains how the knight's character influences the decision he must make?
The knight is a man of honor, and thus must fulfill the oath he made to the old woman.
Read the lines from "Sonnet 7" by John Milton. My hasting dayes flie on with full career, But my late spring no bud or blossom shew'th, Perhaps my semblance might deceive the truth, That I to manhood am arriv'd so near, And inward ripenes doth much less appear, That som more timely-happy spirits indu'th. Which option most effectively reveals how the author's choice of words depicts the passage of time in the poem?
The phrases my late spring no bud or blossom shew'th and inward ripenes depict the passage of time as a process of natural physical growth and decay.
Which lines from the "General Prologue" of The Canterbury Tales most effectively outline the Wife of Bath's character traits that become most relevant to her story?
She was a worthy woman all her life: At church door with five men she'd been a wife, Not counting all the company of her youth.
Which excerpt from The Mysteries of Udolpho most effectively demonstrates how author Ann Radcliffe uses descriptions of the castle to portray Emily's reluctance to stay at Udolpho?
Silent, lonely, and sublime, it seemed to stand the sovereign of the scene, and to frown defiance on all, who dared to invade its solitary reign. As the twilight deepened, its features became more awful in obscurity ...
Read the lines from the poem "Gawayne and the Green Knight: A Fairy Tale," in which Sir Gawayne volunteers to fight the Green Knight in King Arthur's place. ...Gawayne knelt down on the floor. "A boon," he cried, "a boon, my lord and king! If ever yet in any little thing These hands have served thee, hear my last request: Let me adventure this mad monster's jest!" King Arthur shook his head in dumb denial, Loth to withdraw his own hand from the trial, And leave the vengeance that himself had vowed; But all the people called to him aloud, "Sir Gawayne! let Sir Gawayne strike the blow!" And Guinevere, the queen, besought him low To leave this venture to the lesser man. He yielded, and the merry jest began. Read the lines from the short story "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight: A Middle-English Arthurian Romance," which describe the same scene. "... I am the weakest, I wot, and the feeblest of wit, and it will be the less loss of my life if ye seek sooth. For save that ye are mine uncle naught is there in me to praise, no virtue is there in my body save your blood, and since this challenge is such folly that it beseems ye not to take it, and I have asked it from ye first, let it fall to me, and if I bear myself ungallantly then let all this court blame me." Which option most effectively contrasts how Sir Gawayne is characterized in the poem versus in the short story?
Sir Gawayne's speech in the poem portrays him as a victim of fate and the actions of others, while the short story shows that he is a humble, self-sacrificing character.
Which option most accurately explains the difference between something that is implicit and something that is explicit?
Something that is implicit is understood despite not being clearly stated, while something that is explicit is clearly stated.
Which responses accurately state a central idea from The Woman in White?
Sometimes people's intuition or "gut" can send signals that have no basis in logic, yet these signals are correct., In hindsight, people may realize that their actions had unforeseen results.
Which excerpts from Physiologus most effectively support the implied message that people often stray from the virtuous path because they give in to earthly temptations?
Such is the way Of demons, devils' wiles: to hide their power, And stealthily inveigle heedless men, Inciting them against all worthy deeds, And luring them to seek for help and comfort From unsuspected foes, until at last They choose a dwelling with the faithless one., There she sits, Warming a stranger brood, until at last The eggs are hatched. But when the stolen chicks Are fledged, they straightway fly away to seek Their proper kin, and leave the partridge there Forsaken. In such wise the devil works To steal the souls of those whose youthful minds Or foolish hearts in vain resist his wiles.
Re-read Shakespeare's "Sonnet 18." Which option most effectively explains how the imagery of summer contributes to the overall meaning of the poem?
Summer functions as an extended metaphor that the speaker uses to depict the natural beauty of his beloved.
After traversing the trail to the mountain summit, Susanna was famished and in dire need of sustenance food before she could venture back down. What is wrong with how the word sustenance is used in the sentence?
Sustenance is used as an adjective, but it is a noun.
Read the excerpt from the "General Prologue" of The Canterbury Tales. When April's gentle rains have pierced the drought Of March right to the root, and bathed each sprout Through every vein with liquid of such power It brings forth the engendering of the flower; When Zephyrus too with his sweet breath has blown Through every field and forest, urging on The tender shoots, and there's a youthful sun, His second half course through the Ram now run, And little birds are making melody And sleep all night, eyes open as can be (So Nature pricks them in each little heart), On pilgrimage then folks desire to start. The palmers long to travel foreign strands To distant shrines renowned in sundry lands; And specially, from every shire's end In England, folks to Canterbury wend: To seek the blissful martyr is their will, The one who gave such help when they were ill. What response most accurately explains the purpose of the "General Prologue" in this section of The Canterbury Tales?
The "General Prologue" is the frame narrative that introduces the setting and the characters.
"I want to ask you something," she said suddenly. "Do you know many people in London?" "Yes, a great many." "Many men of rank and title?" There was an unmistakable tone of suspicion in the strange question. I hesitated about answering it. "Some," I said, after a moment's silence. "Many"—she came to a full stop, and looked me searchingly in the face—"many men of the rank of Baronet?" Too much astonished to reply, I questioned her in my turn. "Why do you ask?" "Because I hope, for my own sake, there is one Baronet that you don't know." "Will you tell me his name?" "I can't—I daren't—I forget myself when I mention it." She spoke loudly and almost fiercely, raised her clenched hand in the air, and shook it passionately; then, on a sudden, controlled herself again, and added, in tones lowered to a whisper "Tell me which of them you know." Which responses accurately explain what can be inferred about the Baronet?
The Baronet is likely involved in the events that led to the woman being put in the asylum, because she is fleeing., The Baronet likely poses some threat or danger to the woman, because she is afraid of meeting his acquaintances in London.
'I would gladly know upon what reason it is that you think theft ought not to be punished by death: would you give way to it? or do you propose any other punishment that will be more useful to the public? for, since death does not restrain theft, if men thought their lives would be safe, what fear or force could restrain ill men? On the contrary, they would look on the mitigation of the punishment as an invitation to commit more crimes.' What option best identifies the Cardinal's perspective about capital punishment for theft?
The Cardinal believes that if punishment for minor offenses like theft were not severe, those prone to crime would be likely to continue committing or even escalating their crimes.
Which passages most effectively use the word harangue?
The crowd listened uncomfortably as the drunken man harangued about the president's social policies., The car was emitting a terrible noise as she turned the ignition. She sighed as she looked at the clock on the dashboard and thought of the harangue that awaited her at work.
Gwendolen. Jack? ... No, there is very little music in the name Jack, if any at all, indeed. It does not thrill. It produces absolutely no vibrations ... I have known several Jacks, and they all, without exception, were more than usually plain. Besides, Jack is a notorious domesticity for John! And I pity any woman who is married to a man called John. She would probably never be allowed to know the entrancing pleasure of a single moment's solitude. The only really safe name is Ernest. Which response accurately explains why Gwendolen's disgust for the name Jack is humorous?
The audience knows that Ernest's real name is Jack before Gwendolen does. Therefore Gwendolen's line is humorous because the reader knows that there is now an awkward situation at hand.
Algernon. ...But I'll run over the programme I've drawn out, if you will kindly come into the next room for a moment. Lady Bracknell. Thank you, Algernon. It is very thoughtful of you. [Rising, and following Algernon.] I'm sure the programme will be delightful, after a few expurgations. French songs I cannot possibly allow. People always seem to think that they are improper, and either look shocked, which is vulgar, or laugh, which is worse. But German sounds a thoroughly respectable language, and indeed, I believe is so. Gwendolen, you will accompany me. Gwendolen. Certainly, mamma. [Lady Bracknell and Algernon go into the music-room, Gwendolen remains behind.] Jack. Charming day it has been, Miss Fairfax. Which response most clearly analyzes how the author structures this part of the text to create humor?
The author chooses to show Gwendolen verbally agreeing with her mother, then disobeying her in the following line, which is a humorous way to demonstrate her willful personality.
So they walked on together through the wood, Alice with her arms clasped lovingly round the soft neck of the Fawn, till they came out into another open field, and here the Fawn gave a sudden bound into the air, and shook itself free from Alice's arms. "I'm a Fawn!" it cried out in a voice of delight, "and, dear me! you're a human child!" A sudden look of alarm came into its beautiful brown eyes, and in another moment it had darted away at full speed. Which options accurately explain the author's perspective as seen in the Fawn's exclamation, "... dear me! you're a human child!"?
The author is expressing the idea that once we label others, we place judgments on them that might not be accurate., The author emphasizes that when we label others, we can cut off the possibility of meaningful relationships.
Lady Bracknell. ...Do you smoke? Jack. Well, yes, I must admit I smoke. Lady Bracknell. I am glad to hear it. A man should always have an occupation of some kind. There are far too many idle men in London as it is. Which response most clearly explains the sarcastic comment about English upper-class society which the author makes in these lines?
The author sarcastically implies that some members of the upper class have so little to do that smoking counts as a job for them.
A gentle Knight was pricking on the plain, Clad in mighty arms and silver shield, Wherein old dints of deep wounds did remain, The cruel marks of many a bloody field; Yet arms till that time did he never wield: His angry steed did chide his foaming bit, As much disdaining to the curb to yield: Full jolly knight he seemed, and fair did sit, As one for knightly giusts and fierce encounters fit. And on his breast a bloody Cross he bore, The dear remembrance of his dying Lord, For whose sweet sake that glorious badge he wore, And dead as living ever him ador'd: Upon his shield the like was also scor'd, For sovereign hope, which in his help he had: Right faithful true he was in deed and word, But of his cheer did seem too solemn sad; Yet nothing did he dread, but ever was ydrad. Which responses most accurately describe how the author uses narrative elements to introduce the character of the Redcrosse knight?
The author shows the knight on horseback in a meadow, wearing full armor and riding alone; he is a solitary heroic figure., The author depicts the knight on an angry horse, keeping calm despite his horse's temper; he is a patient nobleman.
If in some smothering dreams, you too could pace Behind the wagon that we flung him in, And watch the white eyes writhing in his face, His hanging face, like a devil's sick of sin, If you could hear, at every jolt, the blood Come gargling from the froth-corrupted lungs Bitter as the cud Of vile, incurable sores on innocent tongues,— My friend, you would not tell with such high zest To children ardent for some desperate glory, The old Lie: Dulce et decorum est Pro patria mori. Which response most clearly explains why the author does not state whether the man dies?
The author shows the man to be in a wretched state of pain and degradation, but the manner of his possible death is more important to the author than simply whether the man dies.
Read the lines from the poem "Gawayne and the Green Knight: A Fairy Tale." Not so Sir Gawayne. Vexed in mind he stood With downcast eyes, and knew not what he would. Trained in the school of chivalry to prize His honor as the light of his dear eyes, He held his life, his fortunes, everything, In sacred trust for knighthood and his king, And in the battle-field or tilting-yard He met his foe full-fronted, and struck hard. But now it seemed a foolish thing to throw One's whole life to the fortune of a blow. True valor breathes not in the braggart vaunt; True honor takes no shame from idle taunt; So let this wizard, if he wants to, scoff; Why should our hero have his head cut off? Which response most clearly explains the use and impact of pacing in this part of the story?
The author slows the pace by describing Sir Gawayne's thoughts in detail, which reveals his personality and makes him a sympathetic character to the reader.
The ruling idea of his life appeared to be, that he was bound to show his gratitude to the country which had afforded him an asylum and a means of subsistence by doing his utmost to turn himself into an Englishman. Not content with paying the nation in general the compliment of invariably carrying an umbrella, and invariably wearing gaiters and a white hat, the Professor further aspired to become an Englishman in his habits and amusements, as well as in his personal appearance. Finding us distinguished, as a nation, by our love of athletic exercises, the little man, in the innocence of his heart, devoted himself impromptu to all our English sports and pastimes whenever he had the opportunity of joining them; firmly persuaded that he could adopt our national amusements of the field by an effort of will precisely as he had adopted our national gaiters and our national white hat. Which response accurately explains the writing device that the author uses in this section?
The author uses humor to describe a foreign professor who has taken on English customs with such enthusiasm that it is sometimes comical.
Which response most clearly describes how the author uses archetypes to develop the character of the Redcrosse knight in The Faerie Queene?
The author uses the archetype of a baptism to show why the Redcrosse knight had endurance to continue fighting.
Another gate delivered them into the second court, grass-grown, and more wild than the first, where, as she surveyed through the twilight its desolation—its lofty walls, overtopt with briony, moss and nightshade, and the embattled towers that rose above,—long-suffering and murder came to her thoughts. One of those instantaneous and unaccountable convictions, which sometimes conquer even strong minds, impressed her with its horror. The sentiment was not diminished, when she entered an extensive gothic hall, obscured by the gloom of evening, which a light, glimmering at a distance through a long perspective of arches, only rendered more striking. As a servant brought the lamp nearer partial gleams fell upon the pillars and the pointed arches, forming a strong contrast with their shadows, that stretched along the pavement and the walls. Which inference is most accurate, based on the information in the excerpt?
The description "as she surveyed through the twilight its desolation" indicates the castle is filling Emily with uneasiness because it looks like a place that breeds solitude and despair.
Which response most accurately describes the impact of the lengthy, detailed description of the Green Knight in the poem "Gawayne and the Green Knight: A Fairy Tale"?
The description grabs the reader's attention by showing how extraordinary the Green Knight looked and creates an expectation that he will do something mysterious and fascinating.
Many had lost their boots, But limped on, blood-shod. Which response most clearly explains the impact of the description "blood-shod"?
The description means the men wore blood, not shoes, on their feet, and this surprising choice of words reminds the reader of the shocking pain of war.
The moon was full and broad in the dark blue starless sky, and the broken ground of the heath looked wild enough in the mysterious light to be hundreds of miles away from the great city that lay beneath it. The idea of descending any sooner than I could help into the heat and gloom of London repelled me. The prospect of going to bed in my airless chambers, and the prospect of gradual suffocation, seemed, in my present restless frame of mind and body, to be one and the same thing. I determined to stroll home in the purer air by the most roundabout way I could take; to follow the white winding paths across the lonely heath; and to approach London through its most open suburb by striking into the Finchley Road, and so getting back, in the cool of the new morning, by the western side of the Regent's Park. I wound my way down slowly over the heath, enjoying the divine stillness of the scene, and admiring the soft alternations of light and shade as they followed each other over the broken ground on every side of me. Which response most clearly explains the effect of Walter Hartright's description of the night?
The descriptions of the "wild" and "mysterious" heath and the dappled moonlight create a surreal tone that forms a backdrop for the creepy, disorienting events to come.
Don't leave me, even for an hour, because then the little drops of anguish will all run together, the smoke that roams looking for a home will drift into me, choking my lost heart. Which option most effectively explains the implicit meaning of this stanza?
The speaker is deeply in love and feels as though his lover's potential absence will cause him pain and suffering.
Which option most accurately depicts an example of irony from Gulliver's Travels that lends itself to the satirical tone of the text?
The emperor is described as large and striking terror in others.
Read the passage from the "General Prologue" of The Canterbury Tales. Each one of you, to pass the time of day, Shall tell two tales while you are on the way To Canterbury; then each one of you On the return shall tell another two, About adventures said once to befall. And he who bears himself the best of all— That is to say, the one who's judged to tell The tales that in both aim and wit excel-- Shall win a supper paid for by the lot, Here in this place, right at this very spot, When we return again from Canterbury. Which option best explains the function of the tale-telling game in The Canterbury Tales?
The game frames the narrative and creates a purpose and motivation for each character to tell his or her story, The game establishes and enforces the tone for the pilgrims' tales.
"Rebecca," said Ivanhoe, "thou hast painted a hero; surely they rest but to refresh their force, or to provide the means of crossing the moat—Under such a leader as thou hast spoken this knight to be, there are no craven fears, no cold-blooded delays, no yielding up a gallant emprise; since the difficulties which render it arduous render it also glorious. I swear by the honor of my house—I vow by the name of my bright lady-love, I would endure ten years' captivity to fight one day by that good knight's side in such a quarrel as this!" In which sentence is the word arduous used in a similar manner as in the paragraph?
The group began the arduous climb up the rock face, which would require some difficult maneuvers and would take many hours to complete.
Which sentence uses the word vulnerable correctly?
The hiker made himself vulnerable to getting lost by going off the trail, which was dangerous since he was far from any form of civilization.
Read the excerpt from the "General Prologue" of The Canterbury Tales, in which the host establishes how the pilgrimage will proceed. "Draw lots before we travel farther, then, And he who draws the shortest shall begin. Sir Knight," he said, "my master and my lord, Now draw a lot, to keep with our accord. Come here," said he, "my Lady Prioress, And you, Sir Student—quit your bashfulness. And studies too. Lay hand to, everyone!" And so the drawing was at once begun. I'll keep it short and tell you how it went: Whether by chance or fate or accident, The truth is that the lot fell to the Knight— A fact in which the rest all took delight. Which option most effectively explains how the characters' dialogue and actions advance the plot in the excerpt?
The host asks all the pilgrims to draw straws to decide who among them will tell their tale first, so that all the pilgrims get to share and listen to the others' stories during their journey.
But Ivanhoe was like the war-horse of that sublime passage, glowing with impatience at his inactivity, and with his ardent desire to mingle in the affray of which these sounds were the introduction. "If I could but drag myself," he said, "to yonder window, that I might see how this brave game is like to go—If I had but bow to shoot a shaft, or battle-axe to strike were it but a single blow for our deliverance!—It is in vain—it is in vain—I am alike nerveless and weaponless!" "Fret not thyself, noble knight," answered Rebecca, "the sounds have ceased of a sudden—it may be they join not battle." "Thou knowest nought of it," said Wilfred, impatiently; "this dead pause only shows that the men are at their posts on the walls, and expecting an instant attack; what we have heard was but the instant muttering of the storm—it will burst anon in all its fury.—Could I but reach yonder window!" How does the impatient and anxious tone of the excerpt reveal Ivanhoe's feelings about being imprisoned in the castle?
The impatient and anxious tone reveals that Ivanhoe would much rather die in battle than be injured and imprisoned in the castle.
A tap at the pane, the quick sharp scratch And blue spurt of a lighted match, And a voice less loud, through its joys and fears, Than the two hearts beating each to each! Which options most accurately explain the implicit meanings of "a voice less loud, through its joys and fears/ Than the two hearts beating each to each"?
The implicit meaning is that the couple are so emotional and filled with excitement at the sight of each other that nothing else compares., The implicit meaning is that the voice is quieter than the people's hearts.
Which responses most accurately identify themes of Utopia?
The individual is only worth as much as he or she contributes to the community., People are products of their society and the society itself is responsible for whatever happens to its people.
Which sentence correctly uses the word clemency?
The judge showed clemency when he sentenced the man to probation rather than jail time.
Which option accurately uses the word gaunt?
The men were lost in the forest for three weeks, and when they were finally found, gaunt and starving, they thankfully accepted the offer of a ham sandwich.
Which option most clearly explains a possible reason why the author of The Faerie Queene calls one of his characters "the Redcrosse knight"?
The name reminds readers of St. George, who represents the archetype of a martyr who fought to protect Christians, and shows that the Redcrosse knight represents holiness.
Read the excerpt from the "Wife of Bath's Tale" in which she relates the story of a knight who has committed a criminal offense, and his punishment by the queen. King Arthur spared him for at least a space; He left him to the queen to do her will, To choose to save or order them to kill. The queen then thanked the king with all her might, And after this the queen spoke with the knight When she saw opportunity one day. "For you," she said, "things stand in such a way You can't be sure if you're to live or not. I'll grant you life if you can tell me what It is that women most desire. Beware The iron ax, your neckbone now to spare! And if you cannot tell me right away, I'll give you leave, a twelvemonth and a day, That you may go to seek, that you might find An answer that is of sufficient kind." Which options best explain the relationship between the narrator and her story?
The narrator's motivation, like the queen's, is to educate men about women., The narrator believes men should allow women the freedom to make choices.
Read the lines from John Donne's poem "The Sunne Rising." Love, all alike, no season knows nor clime, Nor hours, days, months, which are the rags of time. Which options most effectively explain why the speaker of the poem describes hours, days, and months as the rags of time? (Select all that apply.)
The phrase demonstrates the impermanence and worthlessness of such short amounts of time., The phrase sets up a contrast between the eternity of love and the transience of time.
Which response most clearly explains how seeing a written story performed as a play will be different from seeing it as an animated movie?
The play will use human performances and responses from the audience to create a new experience with each performance, while the animated movie will present an identical performance each time it is viewed., The play will use stage directions and the actors' interpretations to portray the story's events, while the animated movie will depict the same events through drawn or computer-generated images.
What sentence uses the word chastised correctly?
The principal chastised the student for pulling the fire alarm during class.
Which response most clearly explains the impact of rhyme in the poem "Gawayne and the Green Knight: A Fairy Tale," as compared to unrhymed prose in the short story "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight: A Middle-English Arthurian Romance"?
The rhyme creates a sing-song effect that adds to the lightheartedness of the poem and contrasts with the seriousness of the short story.
Which responses state a theme of The Faerie Queene?
The righteous will find the strength they need to prevail against evil., An honorable hero will fight for what is right, no matter how daunting the task.
Reread "The Chimney Sweeper" (Songs of Innocence). Which options most clearly show how the setting of a newly industrialized London contributes to a central idea of the poem?
The sooty, confining chimneys are a metaphor for the sooty, confining city., The city setting shows the impact of the Industrial Revolution on childhood and on the natural world.
In The Mysteries of Udolpho, consider the story Annette tells Emily about how the previous owner of Udolpho went missing. Which answer most accurately explains what effect this story has on Emily's mental state?
The story is disturbing to Emily because she already feels alone and afraid, and Annette's story reaffirms Emily's fears and apprehension about her new life in the desolate castle.
Algernon. You have invented a very useful younger brother called Ernest, in order that you may be able to come up to town as often as you like. I have invented an invaluable permanent invalid called Bunbury, in order that I may be able to go down into the country whenever I choose. Bunbury is perfectly invaluable. If it wasn't for Bunbury's extraordinary bad health, for instance, I wouldn't be able to dine with you at Willis's to-night, for I have been really engaged to Aunt Augusta for more than a week. Which responses clearly describe how a student who didn't know the word invaluable could determine its meaning?
The student could compare invaluable to the related word value and infer that invaluable relates to worth or usefulness., The student could use the context to determine that invaluable means "relative worth or degree of excellence" because Algernon finds his "Bunbury" strategy quite useful.
Jack. [Nervously.] Miss Fairfax, ever since I met you I have admired you more than any girl ... I have ever met since ... I met you. Gwendolen. Yes, I am quite well aware of the fact. And I often wish that in public, at any rate, you had been more demonstrative. Which response clearly shows a way that a student could determine the meaning of demonstrative?
The student could connect demonstrative to demonstrate, and infer that demonstrative relates to the word show.
Read the lines from The Faerie Queene. So down he fell, as a huge rocky clift, Whose false foundation waves have washed away, With dreadful poyse is from the mainland rift, And rolling down, great Neptune doth dismay; So down he fell, and like a heaped mountain lay. Which option most clearly describes how a student could infer the archaic meaning of false from context clues in the surrounding text?
The student could infer that since the dragon fell, false means "unreliable and weak."
Which response most clearly describes how a student who did not know the meaning of the word martial could infer its definition?
The student could think of the common phrase martial arts to infer that martial relates to fighting.
Read the lines from The Faerie Queene. There grew a goodly tree him fair beside, Laden with fruit and apples rosy red, As they in pure vermilion had been dyed, Whereof great virtues over all were red. ... Which option most clearly states how a student who did not know the meaning of vermilion could infer its definition?
The student could use the context clues "rosy red" and "dyed" to infer that vermilion is a shade of red.
Read the lines from the poem "Gawayne and the Green Knight: A Fairy Tale." When two hearts meet in a dim solitude, That thrills the soul e'en to the finger-tips, And brings the heart's dear secrets to the lips. Which response most clearly shows how a student could determine the meaning of the word solitude by finding information in reference materials?
The student could use the root sol-, which is also found in solo, to infer that solitude means "state of being alone."
Read the lines from the poem "Gawayne and the Green Knight: A Fairy Tale," where Sir Gawayne steps forward to take the Green Knight's challenge. And Gawayne rubbed his arms, his chest he beat, Then grasped the battle-axe and braced his feet, And swung the ponderous weapon high in air, And brought it down like lightning, fair and square Upon the stranger's neck. The axe flashed through, Cutting the Green Knight cleanly right in two, And split the hard stone floor like kindling wood. The head dropped off; out gushed the thick, hot blood Like—I can't find the simile I want, But let us say a flood of crême de menthe! And then the warriors standing round about Sent up from fifty throats a mighty shout, As when o'er blood-sprent fields the long cheers roll Cacophonous, for him who kicks a goal. Read the prose excerpt from "Sir Gawain and the Green Knight: A Middle-English Arthurian Romance," which describes the same scene. Gawain gripped his axe and raised it on high, the left foot he set forward on the floor, and let the blow fall lightly on the bare neck. The sharp edge of the blade sundered the bones, smote through the neck, and clave it in two, so that the edge of the steel bit on the ground, and the fair head fell to the earth that many struck it with their feet as it rolled forth. The blood spurted forth, and glistened on the green raiment. ... Which responses effectively contrast the tone in the excerpts?
The tone in the poem is more humorous, as Sir Gawayne dramatically beats his chest like an animal and the Green Knight's blood is compared to a mint liqueur. This contrasts with the tone of the prose, which is more intense, providing details about the blade going through bones and a head falling to the ground., The tone in the poem is more casual, as the crowd cheers as if they are at a sporting event. This contrasts with the tone of the prose, which is more serious, as there is blood spurting on the floor.
Which response most clearly explains the difference in part of speech between digress and digressions?
The verb digress, meaning "to stray off topic," is changed to the plural noun digressions by the addition of the suffixes -ion and -s.
Bent double, like old beggars under sacks, Knock-kneed, coughing like hags, we cursed through sludge, Till on the haunting flares we turned our backs, And towards our distant rest began to trudge. Which response accurately explains the effect of the descriptive language in the lines?
The words "Bent," "beggars," and "trudge" show that the men are exhausted from the war, creating a weary tone.
And so he was quiet, and that very night, As Tom was a-sleeping, he had such a sight!— That thousands of sweepers, Dick, Joe, Ned, and Jack, Were all of them locked up in coffins of black. Which options effectively explain the meaning of the words "coffins of black"?
The words "coffins of black" symbolize the dark, confining chimneys in which the children must work., The words "coffins of black" symbolize the dark, restricted lives of the children who work as sweeps.
Round the cape of a sudden came the sea, And the sun looked over the mountain's rim: And straight was a path of gold for him, And the need of a world of men for me. Which option accurately identifies a type of figurative language used in the excerpt?
The words "the sun looked over the mountain's rim" are an example of personification.
'Forward, the Light Brigade!' Was there a man dismay'd? Not tho' the soldier knew Someone had blunder'd. Theirs not to make reply, Theirs not to reason why, Theirs but to do and die. Into the valley of Death Rode the six hundred. Which options accurately explain how the author uses connotative meaning to depict a good soldier?
The words "to do and die" depict a good soldier as one who knows that completing his job comes before anything else., The words "a man dismay'd/ Not tho' the soldier knew" suggest a good soldier is one who does not allow emotions to overtake him.
Read the lines from "Sonnet 7" by John Milton. How soon hath Time the suttle theef of youth, Stoln on his wing my three and twentith yeer! My hasting dayes flie on with full career But my late spring no bud or blossom shew'th, Perhaps my semblance might deceive the truth, That I to manhood am arriv'd so near, ... Which options most effectively explain how these lines contribute to the overall meaning of the poem?
The words Time the suttle theef of youth begin an extended metaphor that portrays time as a clever and cunning trickster who steals life away; we age before we know it., The words Stoln on his wing and My hasting dayes flie on suggest images of speed and flight; time goes by quickly.
Which quote from The Faerie Queene most clearly demonstrates how the author uses Una's actions to develop her as a kind and grateful character?
Then God she praised, and thanked her faithful knight, That had achieved so great a conquest by his might.
And so he was quiet, and that very night, As Tom was a-sleeping, he had such a sight!— That thousands of sweepers, Dick, Joe, Ned, and Jack, Were all of them locked up in coffins of black. Which option most clearly explains who Dick, Joe, Ned, and Jack most likely are in the lines?
They represent others like the chimney sweeper, and the reference to these common names for boys emphasizes how many there are as well as gives them identities.
"Forward, the Light Brigade! Charge for the guns!" he said. Into the valley of Death Rode the six hundred. Which options most accurately explain the meaning of "the valley of Death" as it is used in the excerpt?
This phrase depicts the grim situation and frightful possibilities that await the men on the battlefield., This phrase is a biblical allusion to "the valley of the shadow of death," a place of imminent danger.
The partridge lays no eggs, Nor builds a dwelling; but instead, she steals The well-wrought nests of others. There she sits, Warming a stranger brood, until at last The eggs are hatched. But when the stolen chicks Are fledged, they straightway fly away to seek Their proper kin, and leave the partridge there Forsaken. In such wise the devil works To steal the souls of those whose youthful minds Or foolish hearts in vain resist his wiles. But when they reach maturer age, they see They are true children of the Lord of lords. Then they desert the lying fiend, and seek Their rightful Father, who with open arms Receives them, as he long since promised them. Which option most accurately states an inference that can be made about the story of the "stolen chicks"?
Though people often stray from God and are tricked by Satan, they can always turn back from a life of sin to a life with "Their rightful Father."
What sentence correctly defines understatement?
Understatement is the representation of information in a minimal or subdued way, and is used for humor or emphasis.
Read the excerpt from Beowulf. Again, as erst, began in hall warriors' wassail and words of power, the proud-band's revel, till presently the son of Healfdene hastened to seek rest for the night; he knew there waited fight for the fiend in that festal hall. ... Which options provide effective vocabulary strategies for determining the meaning of the word revel?
Using context clues like "words of power" and "festal hall" helps to define revel as "a lively celebration marked by rowdy crowds and commotion.", Using a dictionary helps to define revel as "a high-spirited celebration marked by loud singing and dancing."
If you could hear, at every jolt, the blood Come gargling from the froth-corrupted lungs Bitter as the cud Of vile, incurable sores on innocent tongues,— Which response most clearly describes the impact of the simile in the lines?
Using such uniquely revolting imagery supports the narrator's larger point that war is too cruel to bring glory or sweetness.
Lady Bracknell. It really makes no matter, Algernon. I had some crumpets with Lady Harbury, who seems to me to be living entirely for pleasure now. Algernon. I hear her hair has turned quite gold from grief. Lady Bracknell. It certainly has changed its colour. From what cause I, of course, cannot say. Which response clearly explains the humor in Lady Bracknell's and Algernon's comments about Lady Harbury?
Usually hair turns white with grief, so saying that Lady Harbury's hair turned gold is a humorous way of saying she is doing well and perhaps not missing her deceased husband.
Which quote from Gulliver's Travels most accurately demonstrates author Jonathan Swift's dislike for the arbitrary methods by which English officials receive their positions?
Very often the chief ministers themselves are commanded to show their skill, and to convince the emperor that they have not lost their faculty. Flimnap, the treasurer, is allowed to cut a caper on the straight rope, at least an inch higher than any other lord in the whole empire.
"This jacket isn't old; it's vintage!" said Reese. Which response most accurately analyzes the difference between the meanings of vintage and old?
Vintage sounds more desirable and stylish than old.
What sentence uses the word regurgitate correctly?
We don't have to really understand the vocabulary words for our science class; we just need to regurgitate the definitions on the quiz.
Which quote from Beowulf most clearly supports the theme that brave warriors never make a claim that they cannot back up with action?
We twain had talked, in time of youth, and made our boast,—we were merely boys, striplings still,—to stake our lives far at sea: and so we performed it.
Read the lines from Shakespeare's "Sonnet 29." For thy sweet love remembered such wealth brings That then I scorn to change my state with kings. Which option most accurately explains what the metaphor of wealth represents in these lines?
Wealth represents the spiritual abundance of love and happiness.
Read the sentence and then use a print or digital dictionary to look up the word lineage. Nadezda is very proud of her Russian lineage. Which of the options is a synonym for the word lineage?
origin
Which response effectively describes how two prominent central ideas in The Canterbury Tales interact to convey a complex theme?
While on the pilgrimage, the travelers are given an opportunity to share their stories among people of all social ranks. This temporary social equality allows all the pilgrims to feel valued and accepted as members of the otherwise segregated society.
While they waited till the servant within should come to open the gates, she anxiously surveyed the edifice: but the gloom, that overspread it, allowed her to distinguish little more than a part of its outline, with the massy walls of the ramparts, and to know, that it was vast, ancient and dreary. From the parts she saw, she judged of the heavy strength and extent of the whole. The gateway before her, leading into the courts, was of gigantic size, and was defended by two round towers, crowned by overhanging turrets, embattled, where, instead of banners, now waved long grass and wild plants, that had taken root among the mouldering stones, and which seemed to sigh, as the breeze rolled past, over the desolation around them. Which option most accurately describes how Emily's emotions are reflected in this description?
Words like "heavy strength," "defended," and "embattled" show that Emily feels like a prisoner in this life with Montoni.
Another gate delivered them into the second court, grass-grown, and more wild than the first, where, as she surveyed through the twilight its desolation—its lofty walls, overtopt with briony, moss and nightshade, and the embattled towers that rose above,—long-suffering and murder came to her thoughts. One of those instantaneous and unaccountable convictions, which sometimes conquer even strong minds, impressed her with its horror. Which option most accurately depicts how the author's description of the setting indicates the tone of this excerpt?
Words like "long-suffering," "desolation" and "horror" contribute to a fearful tone.
"So young a child," said the gentleman sitting opposite to her (he was dressed in white paper), "ought to know which way she's going, even if she doesn't know her own name!" A goat, that was sitting next to the gentleman in white, shut his eyes and said in a loud voice, "She ought to know her way to the ticket-office, even if she doesn't know her alphabet!" What options most accurately analyze how the characters' words affect the meaning and tone of the text?
Words like "so young a child" generate a condescending tone and show the reader that those on the train do not take Alice seriously because she is young., Words like "ought to know" generate a controlling tone and show the reader how unrealistic the adults' expectations are for Alice.
Gas! GAS! Quick, boys!—An ecstasy of fumbling Fitting the clumsy helmets just in time, But someone still was yelling out and stumbling And flound'ring like a man in fire or lime.— Dim through the misty panes and thick green light, As under a green sea, I saw him drowning. Which response most accurately evaluates whether there is sufficient evidence to say that a man has inhaled gas?
Yes, because "drowning," although it usually means within water, refers to the fact that the stumbling man cannot breathe.
Anita was not above using subterfuge to avoid being seen by her boss as she left work early. Which option most accurately defines the word subterfuge?
a deceitful or underhanded plan used to hide or escape from something
Read the sentence and then use reference materials to look up the word prowess. Michael Phelps holds an all-time record with 23 Olympic gold medals, awarded to him for his extraordinary prowess as a swimmer. Which definition conveys the meaning of the word prowess as it is used in the sentence?
a high level of skill or ability
Which option most accurately defines framing?
a literary technique that places one story inside another story
What response most accurately defines perspective?
a person's attitude or opinion about someone or something
Which response most accurately defines the narrative text structure element of flashback?
a scene or memory of the past, presented out of chronological order, that provides background information
Which response most clearly presents a character archetype in literature?
a young man who goes on a quest and encounters many trials
Fair is he, full bright And wonderful of hue. The holy scribes Tell us how Joseph's many-colored coat, Gleaming with varying dyes of every shade, Brilliant, resplendent, dazzled all men's eyes That looked upon it. So the panther's hues Shine altogether lovely, marvelous, While each fair color in its beauty glows Ever more rare and charming than the rest. Which response most accurately identifies a literary device used in the reference to "Joseph's many-colored coat"?
allusion
The travelers had to cut short their already brief sojourn in Paris when they received the phone call; a family emergency required their attention back home in Canada. Which words or phrases in the sentence most effectively indicate the meaning of the word sojourn?
already brief, group of travelers
What response most accurately states the definition of central idea?
an overarching message or truth that is specific to a story
Which option most accurately defines personification?
assigning human characteristics or qualities to non-human things
Finding us distinguished, as a nation, by our love of athletic exercises, the little man, in the innocence of his heart, devoted himself impromptu to all our English sports and pastimes whenever he had the opportunity of joining them; firmly persuaded that he could adopt our national amusements of the field by an effort of will precisely as he had adopted our national gaiters and our national white hat. Based on the context in which the word impromptu is used, which response most accurately defines this word?
at the spur of the moment or without any advance notice or preparation
Which options name elements of a narrative text?
characters, setting , plot
Which options are the names of narrative elements?
characters, setting, tone
Read the sentence and then use a dictionary to look up the word negligence. The driver who caused the accident was accused of negligence because he was texting while driving. Which word most accurately conveys the meaning of negligence?
carelessness
Which element of a narrative text is directly involved in the conflict of a story and moves the story along through actions, motivations, and interactions?
character
Mr. Lockwood was uneasy as he sat on the porch, dressed in a crumpled white cotton suit. Nervously, he picked at his top jacket button, occasionally shaking his head, occupied with some heavy thought. The button, held by only one tiny strand, gently swung back and forth as Mr. Lockwood picked at it. As the button fell off, he lifted his tired head, and his murky blue eyes stared probingly through the thick forests. Dark bags hung loose under his eyes, and he wiped beads of sweat from his frowning forehead. He knew that he would need to go inside and face his son, but he needed a few more minutes to gather his courage. Which option most effectively identifies the narrative element used in the passage?
characterization
Read the excerpt from Beowulf. Came Wealhtheow forth, queen of Hrothgar, heedful of courtesy, gold-decked, greeting the guests in hall; and the high-born lady handed the cup first to the East-Danes' heir and warden, bade him be blithe at the beer-carouse, the land's beloved one. Which option most accurately identifies the narrative element developed in the excerpt?
characterization
Felicity's friends showed solicitude toward her during her treatment for kidney stones and urged her to get a second opinion when her health failed to improve. What is the meaning of the word solicitude as it is used in the sentence?
concern or protectiveness
Read the sentence and then use a print or digital thesaurus to look up the word reproof. Although Megan had not dusted the house in weeks, she felt hurt by her mother's sharp reproof regarding her house-cleaning skills.
criticism
Upon visiting Croatia, Anabelle was impressed with its bountiful natural resources. She had a relaxing time on its multiple beautiful beaches and ate copious amounts of fresh produce from its fertile fruit orchards and vegetable gardens. Which words used in this paragraph are evidence that provides context clues that help define the word bountiful?
fertile, multiple, copious
Jacob's goal was to contrive a comprehensive plan that would allow him to complete his research paper before leaving for his family's vacation.
design, come up with
Which option most accurately identifies the two types of characterization?
direct and indirect
Which option provides an accurate definition of the term explicit?
directly stated
"Now! Now!" cried the Queen. "Faster! Faster!" And they went so fast that at last they seemed to skim through the air, hardly touching the ground with their feet, till suddenly, just as Alice was getting quite exhausted, they stopped, and she found herself sitting on the ground, breathless and giddy. Which option is the most accurate definition of giddy as it is used in the excerpt?
dizzy
Alfie could do little to assuage his guilt about accidentally breaking Mr. Ferguson's window, even though Mr. Ferguson just chuckled when he found out what had caused Alfie's mishap. Which word is a synonym of assuage as it is used in the sentence?
ease
Boarding a plane to New York City, Jane felt a sizzle of excitement for all the adventures she would have in the city. Her favorite thing to do was visit the Freedom Tower, which stands proud, powerfully surmounting even the tallest skyscrapers of the Manhattan skyline. Which context clues are most helpful in defining the word surmounting?
even the tallest skyscrapers
And so Tom awoke, and we rose in the dark, And got with our bags and our brushes to work. Though the morning was cold, Tom was happy and warm: So, if all do their duty, they need not fear harm. Which option most accurately describes the literary device used in the lines?
irony
Which option most accurately defines figurative language?
language that uses unconventional construction or differs from literal meaning to create a more powerful effect
Ambiguity is a literary technique authors use to _______. Which option most accurately completes the sentence?
leave a part of a story or poem open to multiple interpretations, giving the text interest, depth, and complexity
When referring to a piece of literature, the character's perspective is the __________ of a character conveyed through his or her actions, reactions, interactions, thoughts, feelings, and words. Which options accurately complete this statement?
opinions, feelings, attitude
How soon hath Time the suttle theef of youth, Stoln on his wing my three and twentith yeer My hasting dayes flie on with full career, But my late spring no bud or blossom shew'th, Perhaps my semblance might deceive the truth, That I to manhood am arriv'd so near, And inward ripenes doth much less appear, That som more timely-happy spirits indu'th. Which option most accurately defines the meaning of the word semblance as it is used in the poem?
outward but sometimes deceptive appearance
Sometime too hot the eye of heaven shines, And often is his gold complexion dimmed, And every fair from fair sometime declines, By chance, or nature's changing course untrimmed. Which options most accurately identify the figurative language shown by the phrases eye of heaven and often is his gold complexion dimmed? (Select all that apply.)
personification, metaphor
Read the excerpt from the "General Prologue" of The Canterbury Tales. When April's gentle rains have pierced the drought Of March right to the root, and bathed each sprout Through every vein with liquid of such power It brings forth the engendering of the flower. ... Which context clues used in the excerpt are evidence that helps define the word engendering?
pierced the drought, bathed each sprout
It is not necessary that I should prolong a narrative which has already run to too great a length by telling how we broke the sad news to the terrified girl, how we conveyed her by the morning train to the care of her good aunt at Harrow, of how the slow process of official inquiry came to the conclusion that the doctor met his fate while indiscreetly playing with a dangerous pet. What evidence from this paragraph provides context clues that help define the word indiscreetly?
playing with a dangerous pet
In which formats are works of literature most often presented?
prose, poetry, plays
Because Angela had an intense three-week training period for the upcoming dance competition, with only a few hours of sleep here and there, she wholeheartedly welcomed one week of quiet repose in her grandma's secluded cottage. Which context clues most accurately help define the word repose?
quiet, secluded
PROSPERO Though with their high wrongs I am struck to th' quick, Yet with my nobler reason 'gainst my fury Do I take part: the rarer action is In virtue than in vengeance: they being penitent, The sole drift of my purpose doth extend Not a frown further. Which option provides the most accurate synonym for the word penitent as it is used in the passage?
remorseful
A massive number of refugees formed a column hundreds of miles long, it seemed. It moved slowly through deserted villages and along the bloody rivers. Horror and shock filled everyone's eyes as a deadly silence hovered over this refugee column. I saw newborn babies die, people laugh in hysteria, elders wail. I saw disarmed and defeated soldiers, and mothers futilely looking for their wandering children. Horror after horror formed a chain of disasters in my memory, and on the third day of our exile, I wept. Which options most effectively identify the narrative elements depicted in the passage?
setting, tone
They have, however, two sorts of games not unlike our chess; the one is between several numbers, in which one number, as it were, consumes another; the other resembles a battle between the virtues and the vices, in which the enmity in the vices among themselves, and their agreement against virtue, is not unpleasantly represented; together with the special opposition between the particular virtues and vices; as also the methods by which vice either openly assaults or secretly undermines virtue; and virtue, on the other hand, resists it. Which words from the text most effectively help indicate the meaning of the word enmity as it is used in this passage?
resembles a battle between the virtues and the vices, openly assaults or secretly undermines
Which options are elements of a narrative text?
setting, conflict
The prefix de- means "to reduce or do the opposite or reverse of something." This helps define the word demoralizing, which means "causing a person to lose spirit, confidence, or hope." Based on the meaning of the prefix de-, what is the meaning of the adjective degenerate?
showing an indication or proof of decline
What type of figurative language is used in the words "his head, That curled like a lamb's back" in William Blake's "The Chimney Sweeper" (Songs of Innocence)? "The Chimney Sweeper": Two Versions
simile
What options correctly identify kinds of irony?
situational, verbal, dramatic
Read the lines from The Faerie Queene. And that more wondrous was, in either jaw Three ranks of iron teeth arranged were, In which yet trickling blood, and gobbets raw Of late devoured bodies did appear, That sight thereof bred cold congealed fear: Which to increase, and all at once to kill, A cloud of smothering smoke and sulphur seare, Out of his stinking gorge forth steamed still, That all the air about with smoke and stench did fill. Which option defines the word congealed as it is used in the passage?
solidified
Which is the most accurate definition of textual evidence?
specific information, found directly within a reading, that is used to support assertions
The vindictive politician vowed revenge on his enemies as he was led away to prison. What is the most accurate synonym of the word vindictive as it is used in the sentence?
spiteful
In some ancient societies, women often had a servile role. They took care of their men, doing chores such as cooking and cleaning. On the other hand, in a few cultures, women held much of the power. Based on the excerpt, which option provides the most accurate definition of the word servile?
submissive and subordinate
"While you're refreshing yourself," said the Queen, "I'll just take the measurements." And she took a ribbon out of her pocket, marked in inches, and began measuring the ground, and sticking little pegs in here and there. "At the end of two yards," she said, putting in a peg to mark the distance, "I shall give you your directions—have another biscuit?" "No, thank you," said Alice: "one's quite enough!" "Thirst quenched, I hope?" said the Queen. When Alice responds with "one's quite enough," she actually means __________.
that the dry biscuit made her thirst worse and so she does not want another, that the dry biscuit's bad taste made it hard for her to choke it down and so she does not want another
Read the lines from the "General Prologue" of The Canterbury Tales in which a wide variety of occupations and social rankings is represented by the group of pilgrims. There with us was a KNIGHT, a worthy man Who, from the very first time he began To ride about, loved honor, chivalry, The spirit of giving, truth and courtesy. He was a valiant warrior for his lord; No man had ridden farther with the sword Through Christendom and lands of heathen creeds, And always he was praised for worthy deeds. ... He found the highest favor in all eyes, A valiant warrior who was also wise And in deportment meek as any maid. He never spoke unkindly, never played The villain's part, but always did the right. He truly was a perfect, gentle knight. ... He helped win Alexandria in the East, And often sat at table's head to feast with knights of all the nations when in Prussia. In Lithuania as well as Russia No other noble Christian fought so well. Based on the excerpt provided, which option most accurately categorizes the knight's social class?
the aristocrats, or upper class
What options contain an accurate definition of theme?
the central message that the author conveys through the characters and plot, the universal truth that the author conveys through the characters and plot
Which option most accurately defines figurative language?
the use of words to express meanings different from their literal definitions in order to enhance power, persuasiveness, or beauty
Which option most accurately provides the term used for the central message or universal truth that the author conveys through the characters and plot?
theme
"I am, indeed," said Rebecca, "sprung from a race whose courage was distinguished in the defense of their own land, but who warred not, even while yet a nation, save at the command of the Deity, or in defending their country from oppression. The sound of the trumpet wakes Judah no longer, and her despised children are now but the unresisting victims of hostile and military oppression. Well hast thou spoken, Sir Knight,—until the God of Jacob shall raise up for his chosen people a second Gideon, or a new Maccabeus, it ill beseemeth the Jewish damsel to speak of battle or of war." This excerpt reveals Rebecca's outlook on the nature of killing for a cause by showing she believes that ___________. Which option most accurately completes the statement?
there is no just cause that warrants any kind of war or battle
Which option accurately defines the verb dismay?
to concern and distress
... if all those who labor about useless things were set to more profitable employments, and if all they that languish out their lives in sloth and idleness (every one of whom consumes as much as any two of the men that are at work) were forced to labor, you may easily imagine that a small proportion of time would serve for doing all that is either necessary, profitable, or pleasant to mankind, especially while pleasure is kept within its due bounds. Based on this excerpt, which option provides the most accurate meaning for the word languish?
to exist in a state of diminished vitality; to become feeble or spiritless
After she gave the lecture on molecular geometry, Dr. Jones realized that she would have to expound on the subject at greater length because the students looked confused and gave blank stares when she asked if there were any questions. What is the meaning of the word expound as it is used in the sentence?
to explain in detail
Which response most accurately explains the purpose of parallel plots within a work of fiction?
to present two or more plots or subplots that are usually connected by a character or a theme
What options most accurately depict literary devices containing meaning that is different from what is directly stated?
understatement, irony, sarcasm
Lady Bracknell. In what locality did this Mr. James, or Thomas, Cardew come across this ordinary hand-bag? Jack. In the cloak-room at Victoria Station. It was given to him in mistake for his own. Lady Bracknell. The cloak-room at Victoria Station? Jack. Yes. The Brighton line. Lady Bracknell. The line is immaterial. Mr. Worthing, I confess I feel somewhat bewildered by what you have just told me. To be born, or at any rate bred, in a hand-bag, whether it had handles or not, seems to me to display a contempt for the ordinary decencies of family life that reminds one of the worst excesses of the French Revolution. Which response most clearly states the definition of immaterial, as used in this context?
unimportant or irrelevant