T.S. Eliot's The Sacred Wood: A Journey into Literary Criticism

Question 1

Which central principle underpins T.S. Eliot's theory of the objective correlative?

Accepted Answer

Sensory imagery effectively evokes emotions.

Answer

Emotions are best conveyed through abstract language.

Answer

Figurative language should be employed to create ambiguity.

Answer

Emotions should be directly expressed by the narrator.

Question 2

In his essay 'Tradition and the Individual Talent,' Eliot argues that:

Accepted Answer

Poets must strike a balance between tradition and innovation.

Answer

Poets must prioritize originality and reject the past.

Answer

Poets should imitate the great works of the past.

Answer

Poets should experiment with new forms and reject tradition.

Question 3

According to Eliot, which characteristic is not essential for a優れた critic?

Accepted Answer

Personal biases

Answer

Impartiality

Answer

Knowledge of literary history

Answer

Sensitivity to language

Question 4

In 'The Metaphysical Poets,' Eliot praises these poets' use of:

Accepted Answer

Elaborate and witty conceits

Answer

Simple and straightforward language

Answer

Romantic imagery and symbolism

Answer

Naturalistic and realistic descriptions

Question 5

A key theme explored in Eliot's essays on the 'dissociation of sensibility' is:

Accepted Answer

The fragmentation of modern society

Answer

The decline of religious belief

Answer

The rise of scientific rationalism

Answer

The alienation of the individual

Question 6

Eliot's essay on 'Hamlet' contends that the play is:

Accepted Answer

An example of the 'dissociation of sensibility'

Answer

A flawless masterpiece of classical tragedy

Answer

A powerful work despite its flaws

Answer

A reflection of contemporary anxieties

Question 7

Which of the following significantly influenced Eliot's literary criticism?

Accepted Answer

French Symbolism

Answer

New Criticism

Answer

Russian Formalism

Answer

Structuralism

Question 8

Eliot's concept of the 'objective correlative' is a method for:

Accepted Answer

Indirectly expressing emotions through external objects

Answer

Creating a sense of emotional catharsis in the reader

Answer

Using language to convey a clear message

Answer

Representing complex ideas through simple symbols

Question 9

According to Eliot, what is the primary function of the 'objective correlative' in poetry?

Accepted Answer

To convey abstract emotions through concrete experiences

Answer

To employ metaphorical and symbolic language

Answer

To create a sense of universality through shared experiences

Answer

To delve into the realm of the unconscious mind

Question 10

In Eliot's view, what does the term 'tradition' encompass within the context of literary criticism?

Accepted Answer

A dynamic force that exerts influence on contemporary literature

Answer

A fixed set of rules that must be strictly followed

Answer

A collection of esteemed works from the past

Answer

A source of inspiration and guidance for emerging writers

Question 11

How does Eliot perceive the relationship between the poet and the audience?

Accepted Answer

Poets should challenge and provoke the audience's beliefs and perspectives

Answer

Poets should prioritize the audience's preferences and expectations

Answer

Poets should assume the role of educators, guiding the audience's understanding

Answer

Poets should disregard the audience and focus solely on their own creative expression

Question 12

What is Eliot's stance on the relationship between poetry and religion?

Accepted Answer

Poetry can serve as a medium for religious expression and exploration

Answer

Poetry and religion are inherently incompatible and should be kept separate

Answer

Religion should be the exclusive subject matter of poetry

Answer

Poetry surpasses religion as a source of spiritual guidance and enlightenment

Question 13

How does Eliot utilize irony and paradox in his essays?

Accepted Answer

To challenge conventional beliefs and provoke thought

Answer

To inject humor and lighten the tone of his writing

Answer

To express his own personal feelings and emotions

Answer

To enhance the memorability and impact of his arguments

Question 14

In T.S. Eliot's 'The Objective Correlative,' which of the following is NOT a key concept?

Accepted Answer

Directly conveying emotions through particular words

Answer

Expressing emotions through physical actions

Answer

Eliciting emotions using sensory experiences

Answer

Employing symbols to represent abstract ideas

Question 15

According to Eliot, the main purpose of literary criticism is to:

Accepted Answer

Contextualize literary works historically and culturally

Answer

Aesthetically evaluate literary works

Answer

Identify the author's intentions

Answer

Provide a definitive interpretation of literary works

Question 16

Which statement best exemplifies Eliot's concept of 'tradition' in his literary criticism?

Accepted Answer

Emphasizing the significance of studying past poets

Answer

Rejecting contemporary poetry outright

Answer

Believing that all great literature is inherently conservative

Answer

Advocating that writers break free from established traditions

Question 17

In which of Eliot's essays did he explore the importance of 'impersonality' in poetry?

Accepted Answer

Tradition and the Individual Talent

Answer

The Function of Criticism

Answer

The Waste Land

Answer

Four Quartets

Question 18

Which characteristic of modernist literature, as defined by Eliot, is the following: 'experimentation with language and form'?

Accepted Answer

Experimentation with language and form

Answer

Focus on traditional forms and themes

Answer

Rejection of objective reality

Answer

Celebration of the individual and the subjective

Question 19

Which of the following is NOT a trait of Eliot's critical style?

Accepted Answer

Emphasis on personal experience

Answer

Precision and clarity

Answer

Use of irony and paradox

Answer

Inclusion of historical and philosophical references

Question 20

According to Eliot, what is the fundamental aim of poetry?

Accepted Answer

To provide a unique perspective on human existence

Answer

To provide entertainment and enjoyment

Answer

To express the poet's emotions

Answer

To impart moral lessons

Question 21

Which movement significantly influenced Eliot's critical thought?

Accepted Answer

French Symbolism

Answer

American Transcendentalism

Answer

Russian Formalism

Answer

German Expressionism

Question 22

Which of the following works is included in T.S. Eliot's collection 'The Sacred Wood'?

Accepted Answer

Tradition and the Individual Talent

Answer

The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock

Answer

The Waste Land

Answer

Four Quartets

Question 23

In Eliot's literary theory, 'impersonality' refers to:

Accepted Answer

Authors using a neutral style and language to convey their ideas.

Answer

Authors expressing their personal experiences in their writing.

Answer

Authors' personal lives influencing interpretations of their works.

Answer

Authors excluding emotional content from their writing.

Question 24

In his essay 'Tradition and the Individual Talent,' Eliot contends that:

Accepted Answer

Tradition empowers individual talent to flourish.

Answer

Tradition is more important than individual creativity.

Answer

Poets must break away from established norms.

Answer

All great poetry is inherently traditional.

Question 25

In his analysis of 'Hamlet,' Eliot emphasizes:

Accepted Answer

Philosophical themes and complexities within the play.

Answer

The play's psychological portrayal of Hamlet.

Answer

Structural weaknesses and lack of action.

Answer

Shakespeare's personal life and its impact on the work.

Question 26

In T.S. Eliot's view, how does 'Tradition' shape literary criticism?

Accepted Answer

Tradition serves as a framework for comprehending and assessing literature.

Answer

Tradition restricts literary innovation and creativity.

Answer

Tradition renders literary criticism subjective and arbitrary.

Question 27

In T.S. Eliot's theory of the 'Objective Correlative', how does language effectively convey emotions in literature?

Accepted Answer

Emotions are triggered by the use of external, objective stimuli that correspond to and evoke the emotions.

Answer

Emotions are directly expressed through specific words and phrases.

Answer

The intensity of emotions is conveyed through the tone and rhythm of the language.

Answer

Emotions are conveyed through the use of abstract concepts and ideas.

Question 28

According to T.S. Eliot's essay 'The Function of Criticism,' what is the true nature of poetry?

Accepted Answer

Poetry enables poets to explore and transcend their emotions through the creation of objective artistic forms.

Answer

Poetry is a purely objective form of expression that lacks any emotional content.

Answer

Poetry is inherently opposed to emotional expression.

Answer

The nature of poetry is ultimately undefinable.

Question 29

How did T.S. Eliot's essay collection, 'The Sacred Wood,' influence the development of modernist literature?

Accepted Answer

It introduced the concept of the objective correlative as a key principle in modernist poetry.

Answer

It called for the complete abandonment of traditional literary forms and structures.

Answer

It encouraged writers to prioritize exploring deeply personal and subjective experiences.

Question 30

In his essay, 'The Metaphysical Poets,' Eliot emphasizes the importance of which literary device in metaphysical poetry?

Accepted Answer

Paradox

Answer

Symbolism

Answer

Irony

Answer

Allegory

Question 31

Eliot's concept of the 'objective correlative' refers to:

Accepted Answer

A set of symbols, images, or sensory details that evoke a specific emotion or experience in the reader.

Answer

A device for creating suspense or building tension.

Answer

A technique for achieving emotional catharsis or release.

Answer

A metaphor that expresses a universal truth or principle.

Question 32

According to Eliot, what is the primary function of literary criticism?

Accepted Answer

To analyze and interpret works of literature

Answer

To establish a definitive canon of great works

Answer

To promote the author's personal opinions

Answer

To provide entertainment to the reader

Question 33

Which of the following is a major characteristic of modernist literature, as discussed by Eliot?

Accepted Answer

Fragmentation and discontinuity of form

Answer

An emphasis on simple language and commonplace experiences

Answer

Strict adherence to traditional forms and conventions

Answer

A predominant focus on historical and nostalgic themes

Question 34

What does Eliot refer to when he uses the term 'tradition'?

Accepted Answer

The accumulation of cultural and literary heritage from the past

Answer

A rigid set of rules and expectations

Answer

The latest trends in literary style

Question 35

What primary criticism does Eliot level against romantic poetry?

Accepted Answer

Its excessive reliance on personal emotions and sentimentalism

Answer

Lack of technical skill and craftsmanship

Answer

Focus on political and historical themes

Question 36

According to Eliot, what is the ultimate aim of a true poet?

Accepted Answer

To communicate the essence of human experience through the use of specific and concrete language

Answer

To entertain and amuse the reader

Answer

To achieve personal fame and recognition

Question 37

What central idea is conveyed in Eliot's essay 'Tradition and the Individual Talent'?

Accepted Answer

A poet's originality stems from effectively absorbing and transforming the literary and cultural past

Answer

The concept of individual genius is irrelevant

Answer

Poets must adhere to strict set of rules

Question 38

What does Eliot mean by the term 'dissociation of sensibility'?

Accepted Answer

The division between thought and emotion that emerged in modern literature

Answer

The use of multiple viewpoints and perspectives

Answer

The rejection of traditional literary forms and conventions

Question 39

Which philosopher had a significant influence on the development of Eliot's critical thought?

Accepted Answer

F. H. Bradley

Answer

Sigmund Freud

Answer

Karl Marx

Question 40

According to Eliot, what is the primary function of literary criticism?

Accepted Answer

To elucidate and interpret the work of art

Answer

To promote the work of art to the public

Answer

To evaluate the quality of the work of art

Question 41

Which of the following is NOT a key idea in Eliot's essay 'The Metaphysical Poets'?

Accepted Answer

Metaphysical poets primarily sought to explore the workings of the human mind.

Answer

Metaphysical poets often employed unconventional imagery.

Answer

Metaphysical poets combined intellect and emotion in their poetry.

Question 42

What, according to Eliot, is the significance of tradition in literature?

Accepted Answer

It provides a shared foundation of ideas and techniques for writers to draw upon.

Answer

It ensures that literature adheres to established forms and styles.

Answer

It prevents writers from making the same mistakes as their predecessors.

Question 43

Which of the following is NOT a feature of Eliot's critical style?

Accepted Answer

Excessive use of jargon

Answer

Intellectual rigor

Answer

Attention to detail

Answer

Use of literary and historical allusions

Question 44

According to Eliot, what is the role of the reader in interpreting a literary text?

Accepted Answer

To actively engage with the text and bring their own experiences and interpretations.

Answer

To accept the author's intended meaning without question.

Answer

To rely solely on the guidance of literary critics.

Question 45

What is the significance of the use of fragmented and allusive language in Eliot's poetry?

Accepted Answer

It reflects the complexity and fragmentation of modern life.

Answer

It demonstrates Eliot's superior intellect and vocabulary.

Answer

It creates a sense of confusion and bewilderment.

Question 46

Which of the following is NOT a technique employed by Eliot in his essay 'Tradition and the Individual Talent'?

Accepted Answer

Storytelling

Answer

Logical argument

Answer

Historical references

Answer

Personal anecdotes

Question 47

What does Eliot mean by the term 'impersonality' in art?

Accepted Answer

The artist should focus on expressing universal truths rather than their personal experiences.

Answer

The artist should strive to create art that is unique and original.

Answer

The artist should imitate the styles of previous masters.

Question 48

According to T.S. Eliot's theory of the 'objective correlative', what is the primary function of sensory imagery in poetry?

Accepted Answer

To evoke a specific emotion or mood through a concrete sensory experience

Answer

To establish a personal connection between the poet and the reader

Answer

To create a sense of mystery and ambiguity

Question 49

Which of the following is NOT a fundamental principle of Eliot's critical approach to literature?

Accepted Answer

Emphasizing personal interpretation over objective analysis

Answer

Advocating for a close examination of literary form and technique

Answer

Seeking impersonal meaning in literary works

Answer

Recognizing the importance of tradition in shaping literary creation

Question 50

In his essay 'Tradition and the Individual Talent,' Eliot argues that a poet's work:

Accepted Answer

Is shaped by both the individual sensibility and the broader literary tradition

Answer

Should be free from any historical or cultural influences

Answer

Is primarily a reflection of the poet's personal experiences and perspectives

Question 51

Eliot's concept of 'impersonality' in poetry involves:

Accepted Answer

Subordinating the poet's personal emotions and experiences to the larger artistic purpose of the work

Answer

Exploring universal human themes and experiences

Answer

Using vivid imagery to evoke personal experiences and emotions

Question 52

In his essay on 'Hamlet,' Eliot suggests that the play's central dilemma stems from:

Accepted Answer

The difficulty of articulating complex emotions and experiences through language

Answer

The conflict between madness and reason

Answer

The struggle between duty and desire

Question 53

In his essay on 'Andrew Marvell,' Eliot particularly commends the poet's use of:

Accepted Answer

Metaphysical imagery and wit

Answer

Romantic symbolism

Answer

Victorian sentimentality

Answer

Modernist techniques

Question 54

T.S. Eliot's essay on 'The Metaphysical Poets' had a significant impact on the literary landscape by:

Accepted Answer

Renewing interest in the works of 17th-century poets

Answer

Promoting the use of free verse and colloquial language

Answer

Defining the essential characteristics of Romantic poetry

Answer

Establishing the dominance of modernist poetry

Question 55

Which of the following poets is NOT included in Eliot's essay on 'The Metaphysical Poets'?

Accepted Answer

John Keats

Answer

Andrew Marvell

Answer

John Donne

Answer

George Herbert