UGC NET English Preparation: Set 3 (Q.61 to Q. 90)

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

Feel free to use these challenging multiple-choice questions and their reasoning to continue advancing your understanding and preparation for UGC NET English.

61. The play "Waiting for Godot" by Samuel Beckett is often associated with which dramatic movement?

a) Romanticism

b) Expressionism

c) Theatre of the Absurd

d) Realism

Reasoning: "Waiting for Godot" by Samuel Beckett is a hallmark of the Theatre of the Absurd, a dramatic movement that emphasizes the absurdity and meaninglessness of human existence. The play features repetitive dialogue and situations that highlight the futility of waiting for a vague and elusive figure.

62. The term "postcolonialism" in literary theory refers to:

a) The study of classical literature and its influence on modern works

b) The exploration of ancient myths and folklore in literature

c) The analysis of literature from regions formerly colonized by European powers

d) The study of literary movements and styles of the post-Renaissance period

Reasoning: "Postcolonialism" involves the analysis of literature from regions that were once colonized by European powers. It examines the effects of colonialism, imperialism, and cultural domination on both the colonized societies and their literary productions.

63. The term "magical realism" in literature refers to:

a) A genre characterized by fantastical elements and supernatural occurrences in a realistic setting

b) A form of absurdist theatre popular in the 20th century

c) The use of intricate metaphors and allegorical language in poetry

d) The exploration of psychological and emotional states in characters

Reasoning: "Magical realism" is a genre that blends fantastical elements with a realistic narrative, creating a seamless integration of the extraordinary into the everyday. It is often used to highlight the mystical and magical aspects of reality while maintaining a sense of plausibility.

64. The novel "Heart of Darkness" by Joseph Conrad is known for its exploration of:

a) Romantic love and personal relationships

b) The impact of colonialism and imperialism in Africa

c) Psychological horror and supernatural phenomena

d) The challenges of modern urban life

Reasoning: "Heart of Darkness" by Joseph Conrad explores the impact of colonialism and imperialism in Africa, as well as the psychological and moral darkness that can result from the abuse of power and exploitation.

65. The term "apartheid" refers to:

a) A style of music popularized in the Caribbean

b) A philosophical movement advocating for self-reliance and individualism

c) A system of racial segregation and discrimination in South Africa

d) A literary technique that involves the repetition of vowel sounds

Reasoning: "Apartheid" refers to a system of racial segregation and discrimination that was implemented in South Africa, particularly during the 20th century. It had profound social, political, and cultural implications, which were often explored in literature from the region.

66. The term "diaspora" in literature refers to:

a) A type of dramatic monologue where a character reveals their innermost thoughts

b) The use of ambiguous language to create multiple interpretations

c) The scattering or migration of a particular group of people from their homeland

d) A style of poetry that celebrates nature and the beauty of the natural world

Reasoning: "Diaspora" refers to the scattering or migration of a particular group of people from their homeland to various locations around the world. It often involves the preservation of cultural identity and the experience of living between different cultures, which can be explored in literature.

67. The novel "Wide Sargasso Sea" by Jean Rhys is known for its:

a) Exploration of futuristic and dystopian themes

b) Depiction of post-colonial Africa and its struggles

c) Reimagining of a character from a classic literary work

d) Celebration of traditional cultural values and practices

Reasoning: "Wide Sargasso Sea" by Jean Rhys is known for its reimagining of the character Bertha Mason from Charlotte Brontë's "Jane Eyre." The novel provides a prequel to "Jane Eyre" and offers a new perspective on the story.

68. The term "colonial discourse" in literary theory refers to:

a) The study of ancient civilizations and their cultural achievements

b) The analysis of texts written during the colonial period

c) The interactions and power dynamics between colonizers and the colonized in literature

d) The use of repetition and parallelism in poetry

Reasoning: "Colonial discourse" refers to the interactions, power dynamics, and representations of colonizers and the colonized in literature during the colonial period. It involves the examination of how colonial ideologies and perspectives are reflected in literary works.

69. The play "The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde is known for its:

a) Exploration of the impact of technological advancements on society

b) Satirical portrayal of social conventions and manners

c) Depiction of supernatural and otherworldly phenomena

d) Poetic language and introspective character monologues

Reasoning: "The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde is celebrated for its satirical portrayal of social conventions and manners in Victorian society. The play uses wit, wordplay, and irony to critique the superficiality of the upper class.

70. The term "hybridity" in postcolonial literature refers to:

a) The blending of different genres within a single narrative

b) The study of ancient myths and folklore in literature

c) The use of allegory to convey political messages

d) The mixing of different cultural, linguistic, and social influences in a text

Reasoning: "Hybridity" in postcolonial literature refers to the mixing of different cultural, linguistic, and social influences in a text, often resulting from colonial encounters. It reflects the complex and dynamic nature of identities and cultures shaped by colonial history.

71. The novel "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini explores themes of:

a) Romantic love and personal relationships

b) The challenges of modern urban life in a globalized world

c) The impact of war, trauma, and redemption in Afghanistan

d) The pursuit of artistic creativity and self-expression

Reasoning: "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini explores themes of the impact of war, trauma, and redemption in Afghanistan. The novel follows the protagonist's journey to confront his past and seek forgiveness for his actions.

72. The term "postmodernism" in literary theory refers to:

a) The study of ancient epic poems and their cultural significance

b) The exploration of classical myths and their influence on modern literature

c) A literary and artistic movement characterized by self-reflexivity, irony, and the breakdown of traditional narrative structures

d) The use of formal rhyme schemes and meter in poetry

Reasoning: "Postmodernism" is a literary and artistic movement characterized by self-reflexivity, irony, and the deconstruction of traditional narrative structures. It often challenges established norms and questions the nature of reality, language, and representation.

73. The novel "Beloved" by Toni Morrison is known for its exploration of:

a) Romantic love and personal relationships

b) The challenges of urbanization and industrialization

c) The impact of slavery, trauma, and the search for identity

d) The pursuit of scientific knowledge and discovery

Reasoning: "Beloved" by Toni Morrison explores themes of the impact of slavery, trauma, and the search for identity in post-Civil War America. The novel delves into the psychological and emotional scars left by slavery and the quest for healing.

74. The term "post-colonial literature" refers to:

a) Literary works written during the colonial period

b) Literature that explores the impact of post-apocalyptic scenarios

c) Literature that addresses ecological and environmental concerns

d) Literature that deals with the aftermath of colonialism and its effects on culture, identity, and society

Reasoning: "Post-colonial literature" refers to literature that deals with the aftermath of colonialism and its effects on culture, identity, and society in colonized regions. It often examines issues of power, representation, and resistance.

75. The play "Death and the King's Horseman" by Wole Soyinka is based on:

a) Greek mythology and the story of King Midas

b) A historical event in pre-colonial Nigeria

c) The legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table

d) The life and works of William Shakespeare

Reasoning: "Death and the King's Horseman" by Wole Soyinka is based on a historical event that occurred in pre-colonial Nigeria. The play explores cultural clashes, rituals, and the impact of British colonialism on traditional African society.

76. The term "orientalism" in literary and cultural studies refers to:

a) The study of European literature and its influence on non-European cultures

b) The use of allegory and symbolism in literature

c) The representation and perception of the East in Western literature and art

d) The portrayal of urban life and the challenges of modernity

Reasoning: "Orientalism" refers to the representation and perception of the East (particularly the Middle East and Asia) in Western literature, art, and discourse. It often involves stereotypes, cultural biases, and the construction of a perceived "other."

77. The poem "The Waste Land" by T.S. Eliot is known for its exploration of:

a) Romantic love and personal relationships

b) The challenges of urbanization and industrialization

c) The fragmentation of modern society and the search for spiritual renewal

d) The pursuit of scientific knowledge and discovery

Reasoning: "The Waste Land" by T.S. Eliot is renowned for its exploration of the fragmentation and disillusionment of modern society in the aftermath of World War I. The poem reflects the spiritual and cultural crisis of the era.

78. The term "neocolonialism" in literary theory refers to:

a) The continuation of colonial practices in the present day

b) The analysis of texts written during the colonial period

c) The study of ancient myths and folklore in literature

d) The blending of different cultural influences in a work of art

Reasoning: "Neocolonialism" refers to the continuation of colonial practices and power dynamics in the modern era, often manifested through economic, cultural, and political influences. It can be examined in literature that addresses contemporary forms of domination.

79. The novel "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro explores themes of:

a) Romantic love and personal relationships

b) The challenges of modern urban life in a technological society

c) The impact of war and political conflict on individuals

d) The ethical dilemmas and implications of human cloning and organ donation

Reasoning: "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro explores themes of the ethical dilemmas and implications of human cloning and organ donation in a dystopian society. The novel raises questions about identity, mortality, and the treatment of marginalized individuals.

80. The term "absurdist theatre" is characterized by:

a) Uplifting and optimistic portrayals of human experiences

b) Exploration of the supernatural and occult phenomena

c) The representation of absurd and irrational situations in a humorous and thought-provoking manner

d) The celebration of traditional cultural values and practices

Reasoning: "Absurdist theatre" is characterized by the representation of absurd and irrational situations in a humorous and thought-provoking manner. It often reflects the existential uncertainty and absurdity of human existence.

81. The novel "Disgrace" by J.M. Coetzee is known for its exploration of:

a) Romantic love and personal relationships

b) The challenges of urbanization and industrialization

c) The impact of colonialism and racial tensions in South Africa

d) The pursuit of artistic creativity and self-expression

Reasoning: "Disgrace" by J.M. Coetzee explores themes of the impact of colonialism, racial tensions, and personal disgrace in post-apartheid South Africa. The novel addresses issues of power, privilege, and morality.

82. The term "existentialism" in literary and philosophical contexts refers to:

a) The representation of supernatural and otherworldly phenomena in literature

b) The exploration of utopian societies and idealized worlds

c) A philosophical movement that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe

d) The study of ancient epics and their cultural significance

Reasoning: "Existentialism" is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and the search for meaning in an indifferent universe. It often explores themes of existential anxiety and the human condition, which can be reflected in literature.

83. The novel "The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao" by Junot Díaz is known for its exploration of:

a) Romantic love and personal relationships

b) The challenges of modern urban life and immigration experiences

c) The impact of war and political conflict on individuals

d) The pursuit of scientific knowledge and discovery

Reasoning: "The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao" by Junot Díaz explores themes of the challenges of modern urban life and the immigrant experience in the United States, particularly within the Dominican-American community. The novel addresses cultural identity, family, and the effects of historical events.

84. The term "stream of consciousness" in literature refers to:

a) The study of classical literature and its influence on modern works

b) A form of narrative that follows a linear and chronological structure

c) The representation of internal thoughts and emotions of characters in a continuous and unfiltered manner

d) The use of allegory and symbolism in poetry

Reasoning: "Stream of consciousness" refers to the representation of internal thoughts and emotions of characters in a continuous and unfiltered manner, often mimicking the flow of consciousness. This narrative technique provides insights into characters' inner worlds.

85. The novel "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro is known for its exploration of:

a) Romantic love and personal relationships

b) The challenges of modern urban life and technological advancements

c) The impact of war and political conflict on individuals

d) The themes of duty, loyalty, and self-deception in a changing world

Reasoning: "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro explores themes of duty, loyalty, and self-deception through the lens of a butler reflecting on his past. The novel examines the implications of personal choices within a historical and social context.

86. The term "deconstruction" in literary theory refers to:

a) The study of classical myths and their influence on modern literature

b) The analysis of texts written during the colonial period

c) A critical approach that challenges binary oppositions and explores the instability of language and meaning

d) The blending of different cultural influences in a work of art

Reasoning: "Deconstruction" is a critical approach that challenges binary oppositions, explores the instability of language, and reveals hidden meanings in a text. It often emphasizes the complexity and ambiguity of interpretations.

87. In which classic novel does the character Pip encounter the eccentric Miss Havisham and falls in love with Estella, while navigating social class and personal growth?

a) "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë

b) "Wuthering Heights" by Emily Brontë

c) "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens

d) "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley

Reasoning: The correct answer is "c) Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens. The novel follows Pip's journey from humble beginnings to unexpected opportunities, exploring themes of ambition, identity, and societal expectations.

88. Which classic novel tells the story of Dr. Victor Frankenstein, who creates a sentient creature through scientific experimentation, leading to tragic consequences?

a) "Dracula" by Bram Stoker

b) "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley

c) "Wuthering Heights" by Emily Brontë

d) "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë

Reasoning: The correct answer is "b) Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley. The novel delves into the moral and ethical implications of scientific discovery and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

89. Which classic novel follows the adventures of young Jim Hawkins as he searches for buried treasure with the help of the enigmatic Long John Silver?

a) "Treasure Island" by Robert Louis Stevenson

b) "Moby-Dick" by Herman Melville

c) "Robinson Crusoe" by Daniel Defoe

d) "Gulliver's Travels" by Jonathan Swift

Reasoning: The correct answer is "a) Treasure Island" by Robert Louis Stevenson. The novel is an adventure story set on the high seas, filled with pirates, treasure maps, and hidden dangers.

90. In which classic tragedy by Sophocles does the title character unknowingly fulfill a prophecy that he will kill his father and marry his mother?

a) "Antigone"

b) "Oedipus Rex"

c) "Medea"

d) "The Iliad"

Reasoning: The correct answer is "b) Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles. The play explores the theme of fate as Oedipus attempts to unravel the truth of his own identity and the tragic events that befall him.

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.