UGC NET English: Practice Set 2 (Q.31 to Q. 60)

A set of 30 multiple-choice questions covering UGC NET English Syllabus:

You are welcome to utilize these multiple-choice questions and their explanations in order to improve your knowledge of the History of English Literature themes and your preparation for UGC NET English or the like exams.

31. The term "mimesis" in literary theory is closely related to the concept of:

a) Intertextuality

b) Aesthetics

c) Cultural relativism

d) Allegory

Reasoning: "Mimesis" in literary theory refers to the imitation or representation of reality in art and literature. It is closely related to the concept of aesthetics, as it involves how artists represent the world and create meaning through their works.

32. The play "Arcadia" by Tom Stoppard alternates between two time periods, exploring themes of:

a) Existential angst and the human condition

b) The conflict between reason and faith

c) Scientific discovery, chaos theory, and the nature of time

d) Social class divisions and inequality

Reasoning: "Arcadia" by Tom Stoppard explores themes of scientific discovery, chaos theory, and the nature of time. The play intertwines the lives of characters in two different centuries, highlighting their pursuits of knowledge, love, and the interconnectedness of events.

33. The literary term "hypallage" refers to:

a) A form of internal rhyme in poetry

b) The repetition of initial consonant sounds in neighboring words

c) A figure of speech where attributes are exchanged between words

d) The use of exaggerated or overstated language for effect

Reasoning: "Hypallage" is a figure of speech where attributes or qualities are exchanged between words. It involves a departure from grammatical accuracy to create a vivid or unexpected effect, often leading to fresh and imaginative expressions.

34. The poem "The Waste Land" by T.S. Eliot is known for its:

a) Celebration of pastoral landscapes and natural beauty

b) Exploration of the human subconscious through dream analysis

c) Multilingual and fragmented narrative structure

d) Use of formal rhyme schemes and traditional meter

Reasoning: "The Waste Land" by T.S. Eliot is characterized by its multilingual and fragmented narrative structure. The poem weaves together diverse cultural references and voices, reflecting the disillusionment and fragmentation of post-World War I society.

35. The literary movement "Black Mountain Poets" was closely associated with:

a) Romanticism and nature poetry

b) Political activism and social reform

c) Visual arts and experimental poetry

d) Spiritual and mystical themes

Reasoning: The Black Mountain poets, sometimes known as projectivist poets, were a group of American avant-garde or postmodern poets active in the middle of the 20th century, who were concentrated around Black Mountain College in North Carolina. The "Black Mountain Poets" were closely associated with visual arts and experimental poetry. 

36. The novel "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe is set in which historical and cultural context?

a) Ancient Greece during the Trojan War

b) Medieval Europe during the Plague

c) Pre-colonial Nigeria during the arrival of European missionaries

d) Revolutionary France during the Reign of Terror

Reasoning: "Things Fall Apart" by Chinua Achebe is set in pre-colonial Nigeria and explores the impact of European colonialism and the clash of cultures on Igbo society. The novel reflects the historical and cultural changes during this period.

37. The term "defamiliarization" in literary theory refers to:

a) The use of common and everyday language in poetry

b) The representation of supernatural elements in literature

c) The transformation of familiar language or concepts to make them seem new or strange

d) The exploration of psychological and emotional states in characters

Reasoning: "Defamiliarization" involves presenting familiar language, objects, or concepts in a way that challenges readers' perceptions and forces them to see them anew. This technique encourages critical thinking and heightens the reader's engagement with the text.

38. The poem "Kubla Khan" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge is often associated with which literary movement?

a) Romanticism

b) Classicism

c) Realism

d) Modernism

Reasoning: "Kubla Khan" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge is a prime example of Romantic poetry, known for its focus on emotion, imagination, and the exploration of the sublime. The poem vividly describes an opulent and dreamlike landscape.

39. The term "synaesthesia" in literature refers to:

a) The representation of multiple perspectives in a narrative

b) The use of exaggerated language for dramatic effect

c) The portrayal of physical sensations in terms of another sense, such as color or sound

d) The blending of reality and fantasy in a fictional work

Reasoning: "Synaesthesia" involves describing one sensory experience in terms of another, creating a sensory fusion. In literature, it can enhance imagery and evoke a richer sensory experience for the reader, contributing to the overall mood and atmosphere of a text.

40. The play "The Glass Menagerie" by Tennessee Williams is known for its:

a) Exploration of post-apocalyptic themes and dystopian settings

b) Depiction of social class divisions and economic struggles

c) Psychological exploration of dreams and the unconscious mind

d) Poetic use of language and symbolism in depicting family dynamics

Reasoning: "The Glass Menagerie" by Tennessee Williams is celebrated for its poetic language, symbolism, and exploration of family dynamics. The play delves into the struggles and aspirations of its characters, highlighting the delicate nature of human relationships.

41. The term "metalepsis" in narrative theory refers to:

a) The use of foreshadowing to create suspense in a story

b) The blending of different genres within a single narrative

c) A shift in the narrative perspective from third-person to first-person

d) The transgression of narrative levels, where a character enters the story's narrative

Reasoning: "Metalepsis" involves a transgression of narrative levels, where a character from one narrative enters another narrative level. It blurs the boundaries between different levels of reality, leading to unexpected and often surreal narrative effects.

42. The novel "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy is known for its:

a) Exploration of futuristic and dystopian themes

b) Portrayal of immigrant experiences in a foreign land

c) Poetic language and emphasis on nature and landscapes

d) Poignant depiction of caste, social injustice, and family relationships in India

Reasoning: "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy is renowned for its poignant depiction of caste, social injustice, and family relationships in India. The novel addresses complex themes within a deeply evocative narrative.

43. The term "metonymy" in literature is closely related to which other rhetorical device?

a) Oxymoron

b) Paradox

c) Synecdoche

d) Anaphora

Reasoning: "Metonymy" is closely related to "synecdoche," another rhetorical device where a part of something is used to represent the whole. In "metonymy," a related object or concept is used to stand in for the intended subject.

44. The literary movement "Transcendentalism" emphasized:

a) The importance of urban settings and modernity

b) A focus on classical mythology and ancient texts

c) The inherent goodness of people and nature, and the importance of individual intuition and spirituality

d) The exploration of existential themes and the absurdity of human existence

Reasoning: "Transcendentalism" emphasized the inherent goodness of people and nature, as well as the importance of individual intuition and spirituality. It sought to transcend the limitations of reason and materialism through a deep connection with nature and the divine.

45. The term "ekkyklêma" in ancient Greek theatre refers to:

a) The circular seating arrangement of the audience

b) A dramatic reversal of fortune in a play's plot

c) A wooden platform on wheels used to reveal characters or scenes from inside a building

d) The chorus's ritual dance in the orchestra

Reasoning: "Ekkyklêma" refers to a wooden platform on wheels used in ancient Greek theatre to reveal characters or scenes from inside a building, allowing the audience to witness events that occurred indoors.

46. The novel "Native Son" by Richard Wright explores themes of:

a) Romantic love and idealism

b) The pursuit of wealth and success

c) The impact of systemic racism and social inequality on an African American protagonist

d) Spiritual enlightenment and transcendence

Reasoning: "Native Son" by Richard Wright addresses themes of systemic racism and social inequality, following the experiences of an African American protagonist who grapples with the challenges and prejudices of society.

47. The term "prolepsis" in literature refers to:

a) A type of irony where the opposite of what is expected occurs

b) The repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses

c) A literary technique where a future event is narrated before it occurs

d) The use of ambiguity and multiple interpretations in a text

Reasoning: "Prolepsis" is a literary technique where a future event is narrated or anticipated before it occurs. It can create suspense, foreshadowing, or provide insight into characters' motivations and actions.

48. The term "aporia" in rhetoric refers to:

a) A figure of speech that involves an exaggerated statement or claim

b) The use of parallelism to create rhythm and emphasis

c) A state of uncertainty or doubt, often used to explore complex philosophical questions

d) The use of humor and satire to criticize societal norms

Reasoning: "Aporia" is a rhetorical term that refers to a state of uncertainty or doubt, often used in philosophical discourse to explore complex and unresolved questions. It can create a sense of intellectual engagement and critical thinking.

49. The play "Long Day's Journey Into Night" by Eugene O'Neill is notable for its:

a) Exploration of supernatural and occult phenomena

b) Depiction of a single day in the life of an ordinary family

c) Poetic use of language and metaphysical themes

d) Intense portrayal of a dysfunctional family and its struggles

Reasoning: "Long Day's Journey Into Night" by Eugene O'Neill is celebrated for its intense portrayal of a dysfunctional family and their struggles with addiction, illness, and personal conflicts. The play delves into the complexities of family relationships.

50. The term "dissonance" in poetry refers to:

a) The harmonious blending of different poetic forms

b) The repetition of vowel sounds in neighboring words

c) A jarring or harsh combination of sounds or words, often used for effect

d) The use of formal rhyme schemes and meter

Reasoning: "Dissonance" in poetry refers to a jarring or harsh combination of sounds or words, often used for effect. It can create tension, evoke certain emotions, or emphasize the thematic content of a poem.

51. The novel "Midnight's Children" by Salman Rushdie is known for its:

a) Exploration of space travel and extraterrestrial life

b) Portrayal of post-colonial India and the lives of individuals born on the day of India's independence

c) Use of Gothic elements and supernatural occurrences

d) Depiction of urban life and the challenges of modernity

Reasoning: "Midnight's Children" by Salman Rushdie is renowned for its portrayal of post-colonial India and the experiences of individuals born on the day of India's independence. The novel explores the intertwined destinies of its characters within the broader historical and cultural context.

52. The term "catharsis" in literary theory refers to:

a) The emotional release and purging experienced by characters in a tragedy

b) The process of adapting a literary work into a different medium, such as film or stage

c) The portrayal of utopian societies and idealized worlds

d) The use of allegory to convey political messages

Reasoning: "Catharsis" in literary theory refers to the emotional release and purging experienced by characters and audience members during or after the viewing of a tragedy. It aims to evoke feelings of pity and fear, leading to a sense of emotional cleansing.

53. The literary term "pathetic fallacy" refers to:

a) The use of excessive sentimentality in poetry

b) The portrayal of characters with exaggerated emotional reactions

c) The attribution of human emotions to inanimate objects or nature

d) The use of dark and gloomy imagery in a work of literature

Reasoning: "Pathetic fallacy" refers to the attribution of human emotions or qualities to inanimate objects or nature, often used to create a particular mood or atmosphere in a work of literature.

54. The poem "The Second Coming" by W.B. Yeats is known for its exploration of:

a) Romantic love and personal relationships

b) The role of women in society

c) Social and political upheaval, as well as the cyclical nature of history

d) The pursuit of individual happiness and fulfillment

Reasoning: "The Second Coming" by W.B. Yeats explores themes of social and political upheaval, as well as the cyclical nature of history. The poem reflects the poet's response to the turbulent events of his time and his contemplation of the future.

55. The term "double entendre" in literature refers to:

a) A form of rhyme scheme in poetry

b) A play on words with multiple meanings, often with one being risqué or suggestive

c) The use of irony and sarcasm in a narrative

d) The repetition of a phrase or sentence for emphasis

Reasoning: "Double entendre" refers to a play on words that has two meanings, often with one meaning being innocent and the other being risqué or suggestive. This linguistic device is used for humorous or rhetorical effect.

56. The literary movement "Naturalism" is characterized by its emphasis on:

a) The celebration of individualism and self-expression

b) The exploration of the supernatural and occult phenomena

c) The portrayal of realistic and deterministic views of human behavior

d) The use of elaborate and ornate language in poetry

Reasoning: "Naturalism" emphasizes the portrayal of realistic and deterministic views of human behavior, often influenced by scientific theories and a belief in the impact of heredity and environment on characters' actions and destinies.

57. The term "hubris" in ancient Greek tragedy refers to:

a) Excessive pride or arrogance, often leading to the downfall of a tragic hero

b) A sudden reversal of fortune for a character

c) The use of parallelism and repetition in a dramatic monologue

d) The emotional release experienced by the audience during a cathartic moment

Reasoning: "Hubris" in ancient Greek tragedy refers to excessive pride or arrogance displayed by a character, often leading to their downfall and suffering. It is a central element in the tragic narrative structure.

58. The novel "Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley explores themes of:

a) Romantic love and personal relationships

b) Dystopian society and the consequences of technological advancements

c) Spiritual enlightenment and the search for meaning

d) The impact of war and political conflict on society

Reasoning: "Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley is a classic example of dystopian literature that explores the consequences of technological advancements, social engineering, and the loss of individuality in a highly controlled and dehumanized society.

59. The term "dialogism" in literary theory refers to:

a) The exploration of a character's inner thoughts and emotions

b) The use of dialogue as the primary narrative technique

c) The interaction between different voices and perspectives within a text

d) The repetition of a phrase or word for rhetorical effect

Reasoning: "Dialogism" in literary theory refers to the interaction between different voices, perspectives, and discourses within a text. It emphasizes the polyphonic nature of literature and the interplay of diverse viewpoints.

60. The term "interpellation" in cultural studies and literature refers to:

a) The process of adapting a literary work into a different medium, such as film or stage

b) The act of addressing and recognizing individuals as subjects within ideological structures

c) The repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses

d) The use of allegory to convey political messages

Reasoning: "Interpellation" refers to the act of addressing and recognizing individuals as subjects within ideological structures, such as society or cultural norms. It involves the ways individuals are shaped by and respond to societal influences.

You may utilise these difficult multiple-choice questions and the reasons behind them to keep developing your understanding and honing your preparation for the UGC NET English.

Ardhendu De

References:

1. The new feminist criticism : essays on women, literature, and theory : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. (n.d.). Internet Archive. https://archive.org/details/newfeministcriti0000unse

2. T. S. Eliot: a collection of criticism : Wagner-Martin, Linda, comp : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. (n.d.). Internet Archive. https://archive.org/details/tseliotcollectio0000wagn

3. Practical Criticism : Richards,I.A. : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive. (n.d.). Internet Archive. https://archive.org/details/practicalcritici030142mbp

4. ALBERT. (2000). History of English Literature (Fifth Edition) [English]. OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS.