English Literature Questions

 

Week 1

 Middle Ages Introduction (including "The Persistence of English"), From “An Ecclesiastical History of the English People”, “The Dream of the Rood”, and “Beowulf”

Questions for "The Persistence of English"

1.  Why do philosophers compare languages to games?

2. How are language and political changes connected?

3.  What was the role of Alfred the Great when it came to English?

4.  Why was French widely used in England for so long?

5.  Why is Old English different from Middle English?

6.  What was the "Great Vowel Shift"?

7. Why did Elizabethans coin thousands of new words?

8.  How did use of English affect different social classes?

9.  How did the rejection of an academy of English affect the English language?  How have other countries (i.e. France) been affected by establishing such an academy?

10.  How is the English language like the English Constitution?

11.  What historical problems are there with the term "English democracy"?

12.  Why might some people (i.e. the Irish) resent speaking English?

13.  Why is the term "standard English" misleading?

14.  What did Johnson mean by the term " a nation of readers?"

Questions for Middle Ages Introduction

1.  When did English originate? 

2.  What factors have changed the English language over the centuries? What languages have played a role in its development?

3.  What were some of the arguments for or against the writing of a dictionary?

4.  What role does "common literature" play in the creation of a "common language"?

5.  What does the word "medieval" mean?

6.  What was the Norman Conquest?

7.  What is the "heroic code"?

8.  How are pagan and Christian ideals used in Anglo Saxon literature?

9.  What is a "kenning"?

10.  What languages dominated after the Norman Invasion?

11.  What is "blood vengeance"?

12.  What was the spiritual climate of the Middle Ages?  In other words, what religions played a role during that time period in Britain?

from "An Ecclesiastical History of the English People"

13.  Who is Caedmon?
 

14. Who trains him to sing?

"The Dream of the Rood"

15.  What is this poem about?

16.  What descriptions are given of the rood and how does the writer draw parallels to Christ in his descriptions?

17.  How is Christ described as the Anglo Saxon heroic ideal?

18.  How are Anglo Saxon terms (i.e. kennings) used to describe things?

19.  List several examples of personification.

20.  List several examples of metaphor.

"Beowulf"

21.  What is an epic poem?  How does this poem compare to the Iliad and the Odyssey?

22.  Look for kennings throughout this poem.

23.  Be able to summarize the fight with Grendel, the battle with Grendel's mother, and the fight with the dragon, as well as Beowulf's burial.

24.What evidence do we have of the influence of pagan culture on this poem?  Christian culture?

25.  Compare and contrast Beowulf and Grendel.  How does the writer reveal Beowulf as the Christian figure and Grendel as the Satanic figure?

26.  Examine the relationships between kings and subjects throughout the poem. 

27.  What is the role of the poet throughout the poem?

28.  Why does Beowulf spend so much time recounting his exploits to King Hygelac?  Does he have an ego problem?

29.  Why does Wiglaf risk his life for Beowulf?

30.  Why does Beowulf choose to help Hrothgar?

 31.  Using the Middle Ages introduction section's descriptions of Anglo Saxon ideals, find examples which show that Beowulf is an Anglo Saxon hero.  What other elements of the Anglo Saxon world are revealed?

  Week 2

Lyrics, The Wakefield Second Shepherd’s Play, Chaucer poems (p. 314-316)

*** Please read about Middle English pronunciation before you begin and refer to it as you read.

  1. In “Troilus’s Song”, what does the speaker say about love?  How has it caused him “wo”?
  2. In “Truth”, what is being said about the nature of truth?
  3. Why does the speaker complain to his purse in “Complaint to His Purse”?

Middle English Lyrics (p. 350)

  1. What do we use to define poetry?  Why do we call these pieces “poetry”?
  2. “The Cuckoo Song” is meant to be sung.  Listen to it on the companion CD for the anthology.  What elements of this poem make it suitable as a song?
  3. What is happening in “Alison”?
  4. How does “What is he, this lordling…” compare to “Dream of the Rood”?
  5. Who is speaking in “Ye That Pasen by the Weye”?
  6. What words are being played with in “Sunset on Calvary”?  Think of other words that have multiple meanings.
  7. What simile is used in "I Sing of a Maiden?"  Who is this maiden?
  8. How does the theology of “Adam Lay Bound” compare to the theology of the Bible and the story of the Fall?
  9. In "The Corpus Christi Carol", how is Christ's tomb described? 

The Wakefield Second Shepherds’ Play

  1. What are “mystery” plays?
  2. The “Wakefield Master” is considered the first English writer of realistic comedy.  Look for humorous elements in this play.  Do you find this play funny?
  3. Identify the rhyme scheme in two stanzas of your choice in order to get some practice with identifying rhyme scheme.  Are the two stanzas you chose consistent in their rhyme scheme?
  4. Why does Coll say he "were better hanged than once say him nay" about the "swain"?
  5. In line 75, Coll uses the word "pardie" for God.  If you know any French, what do you think this phrase might be a shortened version of?
  6. How are the landowners viewed in this play?
  7. Why does Gib say, "Woe is him that is bun" (l. 116)?
  8. What is the weather like? 
  9. Is Mak likeable? Why or why not?
  10. Notice that these shepherds refer to “Christ’s cross” and Mary as the mother of God in several places.  This play is set BEFORE the birth of Christ.  Why do you think Wakefield has them speak this way?
  11. How does Mak attempt to fool the other shepherds and why?
  12. Describe the relationship between Mak and his wife.
  13. What do they do to him as a punishment for his trick?
  14. What is your first response to the appearance of the angel?  How does this description of Christ's birth compare the the biblical account and the picture you have had of it in the past?

 

 Week 3

“Morte D’Arthur” and Everyman

  1. What is “chivalry”?
  2. Who are Sir Agravain and Sir Mordred?  Why do they dislike Lancelot?
  3. What plot do they hatch against Lancelot? 
  4. Do you think Lancelot is responsible in any way for the success of their plot?
  5. How does Lancelot view his actions towards Guinevere (and ultimately Arthur)?
  6. What is the speaker’s view of Lancelot’s behavior with Guinevere? (p. 425)
  7. What is Arthur’s view of his wife? (p. 428)
  8. How does Sir Gawain get revenge?
  9. How is the word “worshipfully” used?  (What is being described?)
  10. What is Sir Bedivere asked to do with Excalibur?  Why do you think he hesitates to do this?
  11. How does Arthur die?
  12. Where does Guinevere go after she leaves Arthur?  Do you believe she has changed over the years?
  13. Do you believe Lancelot has changed?  
  14. How do Guinevere and Lancelot die?
  15. What role does the French legend play in Malory's work?  (i.e. What authority does Malory give to it?)
  16. In reading about Malory's life, how do you think his own life may have affected his personal views of certain characters?
     

Everyman

  1. What is a “morality play”?  How does Everyman fit this genre?
  2. Is Everyman taken by surprise when Death appears? What effect does this have on the audience?
  3. How do the different virtues seek to help Everyman as he faces death?
  4. Ultimately, what is Everyman able to take with him to the grave?
  5. What is the moral of this morality play?
  6. If you were to direct this play, how would you costume the characters so that the audience had a clear idea of who they were? 
  7. Compare and contrast the worldviews of Everyman and “Morte D’Arthur”.

 

Week 4

 16th Century Introduction, from More’s “Utopia”

16th Century Introduction, from More’s “Utopia”

  1. What major change in perception about the English language took place from the beginning of the 16th century to its end?
  2. What were the Wars of the Roses?  How did they effect England?
  3. What is “sprezzatura”?  Describe the manners of those at court.
  4. What major changes occurred in the city of London during this century?
  5. How did the Renaissance take root in England?  What philosophies were admired?
  6. What do “sola scriptura” and “sola fide” mean?  How are these phrases connected to the Reformation and Martin Luther?
  7. What role did Henry the VIII play in the Reformation in England?
  8. Why did Protestants flee when Mary took the throne?
  9. How did Elizabeth I seek to restore the Church of England?
  10. What are the “body natural” and the “body politic” and how did they effect Elizabeth’s role as monarch?
  11. Describe some of the things Elizabeth I did to gain favor with the people and to portray herself as a symbol of England.
  12. What were some of the dangers facing Elizabeth I during her lifetime?
  13. How did writers earn money for their work during the 16th century?
  14. How did different writers use “ornament, plainness, and wonder” in their work?
  15. Which of Sidney's ideas of theater were broken during the Elizabethan era and beyone? What Aristotlean rules of theatre did Shakespeare break? (if you have read "Poetics")
  16. Why were Puritans opposed to theatre?
  17. What is “humor comedy”?
  18. Who was crowned king after Elizabeth died?  What were his religious leanings and how did this impact England?

Utopia

  1. Who is Raphael Hytholoday, and what does his name mean? Who did he travel with?
  2. Why is he uninterested in joining in the king’s service?
  3. Why don’t cities in Utopia want to enlarge their boundaries?
  4. How do farms operate in Utopia?
  5. Why is gold and silver precious in our world?
  6. Why is it important for Utopians to not place value on gold and silver?  What impact does this have on their society?
  7. How are Utopians kept from being in awe of gold and silver—in other words, what are they used for there?
  8. What happens if a Utopian is caught in adultery or fornication?
  9. How does a Utopian obtain a divorce?
  10. What are the Utopians religious beliefs?
  11. How do they respond to Christianity?
  12. Why is the Utopian “preacher” punished?
  13. What were King Utopus’ laws about religion in Utopia?
  14. What impact does it have on a man to believe that his soul has no eternal value?
  15. How do Utopians deal with death?
  16. What are the two sects of people who fully devote themselves to religious life?
  17. Who do Utopians believe they owe their children to?
  18. What is considered “wealth” in Utopia?
  19. Why can it truly be called a “common” wealth, according to Hytholoday?
  20. What happens to people who are no longer able to work?
  21. Why do the Utopians not struggle with greed?
  22.  How might we avoid famine?
  23. In your opinion, is this type of society possible in light of what the Bible says about humanity?
  24. What real world governments have tried some of these ideas?  Have they succeeded or failed?  Why or why not?
  25. If you have read anything along the lines of 1984, Brave New World, Animal Farm or Plato’s Republic, what parallels do  you see?  How do ideals applied to “real” life tend to pan out in the end according to whichever book you are familiar with?

 

  Week 5

 Spenser’s Faerie Queene, Book I, cantos i-v  

Canto I

  1. Spenser created his own meter and rhyme scheme for The Faerie Queene. Today, this is known as a Spenserian stanza.  See if you can figure out his rhyme and meter on your own and then check the dictionary in the back of the anthology.
  2. There are many characters in this poem.  It will help you to keep a record for yourself of these characters.
  3.  This poem begins with a call to the Muse.  This is a common way for epic poems to begin.  If you have read The Iliad or Odyssey, look for connections.
  4. Why are the Redcrosse Knight and Una traveling together?
  5. Who is Phoebus?
  6. What does Redcrosse symbolize?  What does Una symbolize?
  7. Why did they enter the woods? (the "shady grove") What mistakes did they make there?
  8. Why was Red Crosse called to fight? (stanza 5, canto 1)
  9. What gives Red Crosse the strength to continue? (stanza 12, canto 1)
  10. Describe the encounter with Errour.  What does Spenser say about the Catholic church here? (stanza 18, canto 1)
  11. How does Errour die and what do her babies do afterwards?  What effect does this image have on the reader?
  12.  How do the Hermite’s appearance and reality differ? Again, what does this reveal about Spenser’s view of the RC church?
  13. What evil tricks does the Hermit play on Red Crosse as he sleeps? Who helps him with his tricks?
  14. How does Red Crosse respond to these tricks?

Canto II

15.  How does Archimago finally divide Redcrosse and Una?

16.  How does Una respond when falsely accused?

17. What form does Archimago take?

18. What does the Saracen symbolize?

19. What does Duessa symbolize?  Describe her.

20. In Duessa's tale, who was she engaged to?

22. What happened to her beloved?

23. What happens when Redcrosse plucks a branch from a tree?

24. What was Fradubio's mistake?

25. How does Duessa distract Redcrosse from Fradubio's warning?

Canto III

26.  What does the lion represent?

27.  Why did he not attack Una?

28.  Who does Una compare him to? (stanza 7)

29.  What does Abessa's mother symbolize?

30.  What was Kirkrapine's mistake?

31.  Who did Corceca meet on her way home?  How was he dressed?

32.  How did Una react to him? (stanza 27)

33.  Why does Sansloy attack Archimago?

34.  What does Sansloy symbolize?
 

Canto IV

35.  What does the Palace of Pride look like?

36.  What are the roads like? What does that mean?

37.  What does the queen hold in her hand instead of a sceptre?

38.  Who led them to her throne?

39.  The first of her counselors was Idleness.  Describe him.

40.  What color horse did Gluttony ride?

41.  What disease plagued Avarice?

42.  What was Envy chewing on?

43.  Who does Redcrosse meet in the Palace?

44. Describe how Duessa shows her falseness at the end of Canto IV.

Canto V

45.  What is Duessa's role at the beginning of the duel between Sansjoy and Redcrosse?

46.  What is Sansjoy's motive for fighting?

47.  What is Redcrosse's motive?

48.  What happened to prevent Redcrosse from finishing off his opponent?

49.  Who helped Duessa transport Sansjoy to hell?

50.  Who is the messenger of death?

51.  Who is Tantalus?

52.  Who is Aesculapius?

53.  How does Duessa convince him to help Sansjoy?

54.  What do the people in the Princess's dungeon have in common?

Week 6

Faerie Queene Questions, Book I, Cantos vi-xii

Canto vi

  1. How does Sans Loy attempt to gain his desires from Una?
  2. How does Una escape from him?
  3. Which descriptions of Una and the woodland folk are particularly vivid?  Choose your two favorite lines and why they struck you.
  4. Describe Satyrane’s upbringing and abilities.
  5. What does Una fear has happened to Red Crosse?
  6. How does Satyrane attempt to avenge Red Crosse for Una?
  7. Compare and contrast Una and Duessa—think about what each represent as you do this.

Canto vii

  1. What contributes to Red Crosse’s weakness and what might it represent? 
  2. Who is rebuked by the speaker more harshly (Red Crosse or Duessa)for what happens?  What do you think about this?
  3. How does the Geaunt overtake Red Crosse?
  4. When Duessa becomes Geaunt’s mistress, what do her new clothes symbolize?
  5. What is Una’s reaction to what has become of Red Crosse?  What does this reveal about her?
  6. Why might we compare our first glimpse of Prince Arthur to the glorified rood in “Dream of the Rood"?
  7. If indeed Arthur is a Christ figure, what support can you find in the text?
  8. What does Una share with Arthur about her past? What biblical connection can be made from her place of origin? 
  9.  Who is Una’s “onely foe?”

canto viii

  1. From what Arthur tells Una to do before he fights the “Gyant” (Hey, I didn’t spell that inconsistently—Spenser did) what is his apparent confidence level?
  2. What descriptions of Duessa and the Gyant/Geant/Geaunt in canto 8 cause them to appear even more despicable than they were before?
  3. Describe the battle between Arthur and the misspelled Giant.
  4. What effective similes are used to describe the defeat of the Gyant?
  5. Describe the inside of Orgoglio’s castle and the release of Red Crosse.
  6. What does Duessa really look like?

canto ix

  1. Describe Arthur’s upbringing and his great loss.  Considering that Arthur was supposedly an ancestor of Queen Elizabeth I (and also that he was a popular mythical figure during Spenser’s lifetime) and that the Faerie Queene represents QE, what significance might this have?
  2. What did Arthur scorn? What happened?
  3. What gifts are exchanged between Arthur and Red Crosse and what might they symbolize?
  4. What did Sir Trevisan wear around his neck?
  5. Who is Sir Terwin and what happened to him?
  6. What do you consider Despair's best argument? How would you answer it?

canto x

  1. Compare and contrast the House of Holiness to the House of Pride, especially the residents.
  2. Who was queen of the House of Holiness?
  3. If the door was locked, how did they get in?
  4. What does this symbolize?
  5. What did Fidelia teach Redcross?
  6. What did Speranza teach Redcross to hold?
  7. What was sent for to help cure the knight?
  8. What does Charissa teach to Redcross?
  9. Compare Charissa and her babies to Errour and her babies.
  10. Who leads Redcross up the mountain?
  11. Why is Redcross not allowed to go straight to the New Jerusalem?

canto xi

  1. What does Spenser compare the dragon's wings to?
  2. How long is his tail?
  3. Who drew his "first blood" in the battle?
  4. What did the dragon's flame do to Redcross's armor?
  5. How long did Una pray?
  6. What saved the knight?
  7. When Redcross reappeared the next morning, how did the dragon react?
  8. What saved the knight this time?
  9. How does Redcross slay the dragon?
  10. Whose victory was it?

canto xii

  1. Who told the king and queen the dragon was dead?
  2. What does the king offer to Redcross in verse 17?
  3. Why does Redcross turn it down?
  4. Who shows up to spoil the party?
  5. What does this say about the nature of sin?
  6. What does she claim and by what right?
  7. How does the king respond?
  8. Who bails out Redcross (again)?
  9. When the party resumes, who performs the betrothal ceremony?
  10. Why doesn't this end with "and they lived happily ever after"?

Week 7

The Faerie Queene Questions, Book II, stanzas 42-87

1.  What do Sir Guyon and the Palmer represent?  Why is it appropriate that these two virtues would travel together?

2.  Describe the Bower of Bliss.

3.  How does Guyon respond to the "bowle" offered to him?  What does it represent?

4.  How does he respond to the second cup offered to him?  What does this tell us about his character?

5.  How is Guyon rescued from the "naked Damzelles?"

6.  What have the men surrounding Acrasia been turned into?  Who is Grille and what is his response?  What is Spenser telling us about what inappropriate love does to us?

 

Book III, Cantos i-xii (read summaries of cantos 4, 7, 8, 9, and 10

canto i

  1. Describe the encounter between Guyon and Britomart.
  2. What is the “secret power” of Britomart’s spear?
  3. Why does a lady rush past them on a horse?
  4. Who does Britomart fight?  Who is she defending and what has he done “wrong”?
  5. Describe Castle Joyeus.
  6. What appears on the tapestries in this castle and why are they significant?
  7. Why does Britomart keep her armor on?  Compare this to Red Crosse’s disarming of himself before he was captured by Orgoglio in Book II.
  8. What quote(s) reveal that the lady of Castle Joyeus is NOT a Proverbs 31 woman? (specifically: “Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord shall be praised.”)
  9. What encouragement and advice does Spenser give to young ladies in canto i?
  10. Describe the situation that occurs between Britomart and the “Lady” of the castle.

canto ii

  1. In canto ii, what is Spenser’s opinion of men in general?
  2. Also, what does he say about women as warriors?
  3. How does the lines in stanza 7 of canto ii connect Britomart to Beowulf?
  4. What does Britomart see in her father’s “magic mirror”? Why does this upset her?
  5. Why does she think those with "horrible intent" have life better than her?
  6. Why are her nurse's herbal remedies ineffective?
  7. Find two effective descriptions of Britomart’s emotions in canto 2.

canto iii

1.  Why do they go to Merlin?

2. What does he tell them?

  1. Read summary of canto 4 and read canto 5 from stanza 27-55.

canto vi

  1. How is Timias’ wounded, physically?
  2. After he is cured, how is wounded, emotionally?
  3. What is he willing to do to avoid dishonor?
  4. Describe Belphoebe. (not “Buffy”)
  5. Describe Belphoebe’s conception and birth. 
  6. Where is her sister Amoretta and what is she raised to be?
  7. Why is Time an enemy to the Garden of Adonis?
  8. What do you think is the purpose of the description of the Garden of Adonis?
  9. Read summaries of cantos 7-10

canto xi

  1. Why is Britomart able to frighten Ollyphant?
  2. Who says the following and what does it refer to? “What booteth then the good and righteous deed, if goodnesse find no grace, nor righteousnesse no meed?”
  3. Who says, “…life is wretchedness” and why is this meant to be a comfort?
  4. Why doesn't Scudamore make it into Busirane's house?
  5. Describe the type of scenes on the tapestry in Busirane’s house.  What do these scenes reveal about the nature of the owner?
  6. Why is Cupid described as "Victor of the gods"?
  7. Describe the “masque” (procession of people in costume) and what do each of them represent?  Compare to the House of Pride’s characters.
  8. How does Britomart defeat Busirane?  What does he attempt to use against her?

General questions about this week’s reading:

  1. Has Red Crosse changed since Book II?  Why or why not?
  2. What virtues and character traits do Una and Britomart share?  How do they differ in their use of them?
  3. Which of these  houses (Pride, Holiness, Joy, Busirane) do you think was described the most effectively?  Give examples of Spenser’s descriptions.

Week 8

Doctor Faustus Questions

  1. Where does Faustus live during the play (town) and what historical significance does this town have?
  2. What subject is his degree in?
  3. What subject interests him most? 
  4. Why are logic, medicine (physic), religion, and law worthless subjects to Faustus?
  5. What do Cornelius and Valdes tell Faustus he will gain if he sells his soul?
  6. When Faustus summons up a demon (Mephastophilis), he asks him to appear as a “Franciscan friar”.  What might this reveal about Faustus’ view of the Church?
  7. What does Mephastophilis tell Faustus about his (M’s) own eternity?
  8. What is the clown willing to sell his soul for?  Compare this scene to the scene of Faustus selling his soul.  How does each character weigh the pros and cons of doing so?
  9. What arguments does Faustus use for and against the selling of his soul? (This is a question that can draw answers from the entire play).  Are there verses in the Bible to support or disprove his arguments?  (Be ready with them)
  10. What happens when Faustus first tries to sign his name in blood?
  11. What question does Faustus ask Mephastophilis after he sells his soul?  Why do you think he asks this questions AFTER he has signed his soul away?
  12. Who does Faustus blame for his actions?
  13. Compare Faustus to Lucifer.  What similarities to the devil do you see in why he chooses to sell his soul and what he does afterwards? Look for verses from the Bible to reveal Lucifer's character versus Faustus's.
  14. What delightful vision does Faustus compare the seven deadly sins to?
  15. Describe the seven deadly sins as compared to the seven deadly sins in Faerie Queene.
  16. What tricks does Faustus play on the Pope during his invisible visit?
  17. What curse do the friars proclaim on “whoever” did these things to the Pope?
  18. How do Robin and Rafe use Faustus’ necromancy books?
  19. How does Faustus punish the Knight for doubting his skills?
  20. What images does he conjure for the emperor?
  21. Describe the trick that Faustus plays on the horse-courser. 
  22. What makes the above scene so humorous?
  23. What arguments does the Old Man use with Faustus to get him to change his mind?
  24. Why do you think Faustus asks Mephastophilis to bring him "heavenly Helen" when he is facing death? (l. 75 and surrounding lines, act 12)
  25. When has Faustus truly lost all hope?  Do you think he should still have mercy at the end of his life?  What does the Bible say about God’s mercy?

Weeks 9 and 10

Shakespeare

Sonnets

  1. Be able to explain what a Shakespearean sonnet is.  (meter, rhyme scheme, subject matter)
  2. Identify the theme of each sonnet on the reading list, plus the most effective usages of literary devices (metaphor, simile, rhyme, alliteration).
  3. Spend a longer period of time examining two sonnets of your choice.  Look up unfamiliar words (you should do this when you read anything, anyway) and then “translate” these two sonnets into modern English.  You do not need to follow the rhyme scheme or the meter, but focus on the meaning.  It would be good to choose the sonnet that you understand the least on a first reading.

Twelfth Night Questions, Acts I-V 

  1. What happened when Sebastian and Viola sailed near Illyria?
  2. What did Viola decide to do when she landed on the coast?
  3. Why is Viola sent to visit Lady Olivia?
  4. What happens when Viola visits Lady Olivia?
  5. How does Olivia attempt to see Viola/Cesario again?
  6. What does Viola say about men and women and their love for each other?
  7. What trick is played on Malvolio?
  8. Why would Shakespeare portray Malvolio, a very unlikeable fellow, as a Puritan, considering what you know about the sixteenth century? (Think back a few weeks)
  9. What do people dislike about Malvolio?
  10. What does Malvolio do the day after he reads the letter supposedly from Olivia?
  11. What is Olivia’s reaction?
  12. What does Toby tell Cesario and Sir Andrew about Malvolio when they come to call?
  13. A duel between Cesario and Sir Andrew begins and both are terrified.  Who steps in and why did this person stop the fight?
  14. What is Viola’s reaction at hearing the name Sebastian?
  15. Why is Olivia angry with Viola after the duel?
  16. Do you find it odd that Orsino marries Viola so quickly after his melancholy love for Olivia?
  17. Do you find it odd that Sebastian is willing to marry Olivia so quickly?
  18. Consider the previous two questions.  What is Shakespeare saying about the nature of love in this play?
  19. Does Malvolio deserve the treatment he receives?  Why or why not?
  20. What can Viola do dressed as a man that she cannot do as a woman?
  21. How is music used in the play?  Are the lyrics of the songs significant to the scenes in which they appear?  Explain.
  22. What is the significance of drunkenness, revelry and madness in the play? 
  23. In what ways do characters of lesser rank become “masters” of their superiors in this play?
  24. What is the role of Feste in this play?
  25. In your opinion, who speaks the most truth throughout the play?

  Week 11 

The Early Seventeenth Century

  1. What were some differences between Elizabeth I and James I, concerning views of the monarchy, interests, etc.
  2. Contrast James I and his son, Charles.
  3. What were some changes in the scientific world during this time?
  4. What sets apart the poetry of  John Donne (and the Metaphysical poets), Ben Jonson (and the Cavaliers or “Sons of Ben”) and George Herbert?
  5. What were some causes of the English Revolution?
  6. Who was Oliver Cromwell and what was his role?
  7. What happened in the world of theatre during this time period?
  8. What was Milton’s view of the Revolution and what were some of the subjects about which he wrote?
  9. What is a “metaphysical conceit”?
  10. What is the flea compared to in “The Flea”?
  11. Name two things love is compared to in “The Good-Morrow”.
  12. What is the difference in theme in both “Songs”?
  13. What does the speaker say about love in “The Indifferent”?
  14. What is a “valediction” and what does the speaker say about tears in “A Valediction: Of Weeping”?
  15. What does it mean for a person to be “canonized” and why does the speaker think he and his love should be canonized in “The Canonization?”
  16. Who is “the bait” in the poem by the same title?
  17. What does the speaker say he will do to his mistress after his death in “The Apparition”?
  18. How is the image of a compass used in “Valediction: Forbidden Mourning”?  *Spend some extra time on this one—the compass conceit is one that Donne is most famous for.
  19. What is a “relic” and what does the speaker hope a gravedigger will think when he sees the speaker’s bones?
  20. Satire 3 contains the musings of Donne as he debates leaving the Roman Catholic Church for Anglicanism.  What main question is he asking about religion and what conclusion does he come to?
  21. How does the speaker use East and West in “Good Friday, 1613: Riding Westward”?
  22. In “A Hymn to Christ”, what ideas come across in the last line of each stanza?
  23. Why does the speaker joy in his “straits” (he plays with more than one meaning of this word) in “Hymn to God, My God, in My Sickness”?
  24. How does the speaker use the words “done” and “more” in “Hymn to God the Father”? (Be sure to read the biographical information of Donne, and remember “Donne” is pronounced “done”—hmmm… maybe I gave away too much)
  25. Who does the bell toll for in Meditation 17?
  26. How is God a “metaphorical” God in Meditation 19?
  27. What does Donne urge his congregation to do at the end of  his sermon, “Death’s Duel”?

Holy Sonnets (questions numbered by number of sonnet)

  1. What does the speaker ask of God ?

5. What does the speaker say should be done to his “little world”?

7. Why does the speaker ask God to “let them sleep”?

  1. What does the speaker complain about at the start of the poem and how is his complaint resolved?
  2. Why is Death not proud?
  1. What does the speaker say about beauty and pity?
  2. What images are used to describe the speaker and God?
  1. What is the speaker seeking comfort for?
  2. What “spouse” is the speaker referring to?
  3. Why are the speaker’s best days when he “shakes with fear?”

Week 12

Ben Jonson Questions

1. Pay attention to the names and meanings of the characters and think about what virtues or vices those particular animals might be associated with.  Jonson did this intentionally.

2. As the play opens, what does Volpone worship? (Hint: He speaks about it in sacred terms)

3. When Nano  and Androgyno speak, they use the meter used in the old morality plays (i.e. Everyman).  What "moral" do you think they might be trying to express?

4.  Why is a fool able to speak "truth free from slaughter"?

5.  What does Corbaccio bring for Volpone on his first visit?  Why does Mosca tell him Volpone will not take it?

6.  What does Mosca tell Corbaccio he must do in order to be Volpone's heir?

7.  What does Mosca tell Corvino (not to be confused with Corbaccio!) Volpone must have from him?

8.  Lady and Sir Politic Would-Be are visitors to Venice (where the play is set) from England.  They are there to pick up the customs of the Venetians and think very highly of themselves.  The word "politic" means "cautious" in this context and it has more to do with being socially appropriate in order to move up in society. One joke that is brought up about them has to do with the fact that King James gave away knighthoods whenever he felt like it.  Because of this, many people looked down upon a knight because knighthoods were so easy to come by. However, Sir Politic continues to think he is quite the man and Lady Politic (who is NOT beautiful, though she is called so) believes she is the next Helen of Troy.  Picture both of them as washed-up and unattractive in order to read the play properly. They are name-droppers who try to show how "in the know" they are about Venice, but merely reveal their ignorance as they try to do this.  Peregrine is another traveler that Politic meets in the streets and shares too much personal information with. Find several examples of Sir and Lady that reveal what I have just told you about them.  For example, who is Lady Politic seeking to learn Venetian fashion from?

9.  What does Volpone dress up as and what does he try to sell on the streets? 

10.  Who does he see in a window and what emotion overtakes him at this time?

11.  Describe the marital relationship between Corvino and Celia. 

12.  What kind of person is Celia? 

13.  Who is Bonario?  How does Mosca upset him?

14.  Does Volpone enjoy Lady Politic's company?

15.  How does Mosca get Lady P. to leave Volpone's house?

16.  A "cuckold" is a man whose wife has been unfaithful to him and evidence of that was (oddly enough) horns growing out of his head.  Remember this when you read Act 3, sc. 7.

17.  What is Corvino's view of honor? Celia's?

18.  What does Corvino say he will do if Celia does not go to Volpone?

19.  As we read the "Cavalier" poets (or "sons of Ben", who imitate Jonson's style), we will explore the common theme of "carpe diem" in their poetry.  This means "seize the day", or more commonly, is meant to mean "seize the dame".  Read the "song" in Act III, sc. 7 with this theme in mind.

20.  Poets often lament the lack of women who are beautiful and honorable.  What character represents both in this play and what happens to her?

21.  Who does Lady Politic think Peregrine is? * See question 15.

22. Why is a trial held and why do so many people gang up against Celia in the court trial?  What is Bonario's role?

23. When Volpone's death is announced, what is discovered about his inheritance?

24.  What disguise does Sir Politic attempt to put on and what is he accused of doing? (This is, in my opinion, the comic highlight of the play-- picturing Sir Politic in this costume is pretty funny :))

25.  The second court trial has to do with Volpone's inheritance.  It is here that Mosca plays a trick on him in order to get what he wants.  Is he successful?

26.  How does the fool become the master in the end?

Poetry

1. Identify the subject and theme of each poem.  A hint for "On Something That Walks Somewhere"-- Jonson didn't think a nobleman deserved credit just for inheriting a title.  This poem is a comment about someone in the upper class.

2.  What does Jonson tempt his prospective guest with in "Inviting a Friend to Supper"?
3.  "To Penshurst" is one of the great poems celebrating a "country house".  What merits does this house possess?

4.  What praise does Jonson give Shakespeare in his poem to his memory?

5.  Jonson wrote "Ode to Himself" after his "The New Inn" failed to win public appeal.  What does he say about the general public's taste in this poem?

6. What do his devotional poems reveal about his beliefs?

Week 13

Herbert, Herrick, Marvell                                              

  1. “Emblematic” poetry  forms the words of the poem in the shape of what is being written about.  George Herbert is one of the English masters of emblematic poems.  Pay close attention to the two poems (“The Altar” and “Easter Wings”) we are studying.  What shapes do they suggest and, more specifically, where are certain words placed within the picture?  For example, where does Herbert discuss the heart in “The Altar”?  What significance might this have?  Similarly, look at which lines are smallest in “Easter Wings”.  What do these words say?
  2. What extended metaphor is used in “Redemption”?
  3. “Affliction” is fairly autobiographical to Herbert’s life.  He ends the poem with a puzzling statement.  Look over the rest of the poem to figure out why he might say this.
  4. “Prayer (1)” lists images to illuminate the subject of prayer for us, but the second stanza has me stumped.  Please look over this stanza and be ready to tell me what you think it might mean in connection to the rest of the poem.
  5. “Church Monuments” refers to something called “memento mori”, or reminders of death.  During Herbert’s time, and in previous centuries, paintings often contained images of life, such as flowers, along with images of death, such as dead bugs (I kid you not!) and skulls.  You can still see clocks in museums with Latin inscriptions reminding people to remember that time is leading them to death.  There were many different types of memento mori, but the basic idea, whatever the medium, was that man should not live life ignorant of death’s approach.  Remember that John Donne had a painting made of himself in his funeral shroud to look at on his deathbed.  While these “memento mori” may seem morbid to the modern man, there is hope in looking at them from a Christian perspective.  What positive message does the speaker draw out of the church monuments?
  6. The rhyme scheme in “Denial” is important to the meaning of the poem.  The footnote for the seventh edition tells us that all of the concluding lines of the stanzas are unrhymed except for the last one.  What does Herbert believe will fix his “heartless breast” which is out of rhyme?
  7. “Virtue” places beautiful, vibrant image next to a reminder of death.  How does the speaker justify the placement of these two seemingly contradictory things next to each other? (Hint: last stanza!)
  8. In “The Collar”, the title has several meanings.   The seventh edition footnote tells us it could mean: 1. a clerical collar (like a clergyman would wear), 2. a slave’s collar 3. the poet’s choler (anger) and (perhaps) 4. the “caller” that he hears in the end.  Why is the poet angry and what soothes him in the end?
  9. Read the poem “Discipline”.  Now go back and read John Donne’s poem “Holy Sonnet 14”.  Compare the view that each poet has of the subject.  Which do you feel is more effective?  Why?  Be ready to support your idea using both texts.
  10. In “Love (3)”, when the speaker says “A guest…worthy to be here” (line 7), he is saying that he lacks, or needs, a guest who is worthy to be there—he is not saying that he IS a guest who is worthy to be there.  What does the Lord tell him to assuage his fears of unworthiness?

Herrick

  1. Compare Herrick’s “Delight in Disorder” to the sixteenth century view of fashion.  (Think about how Elizabeth I dressed). 
  2. “Corinna’s Going A-Maying” and “To the Virgins…” are both classic “carpe diem” (seize the day, seize the dame) poems.  What common images do they use?  Think about what the speaker says about the seasons.  What does the speaker tell the reader he (or she) must do in order to enjoy life to its fullest?
  3. In “His Prayer to Ben Jonson”, what images are used to turn Ben into “Saint Ben”?
  4. In “Upon Julia’s Clothes”, how is the word “liquefaction” used?  (Look it up!) What effect does it have on our view of her dress?

Marvell

  1. What connections does the speaker draw between Christ and the serpent in Marvell’s “The Coronet”?
  2. What do “Soul” and “Body” lament in “ A Dialogue Between Soul and Body?”
  3. The two “Mower” songs are about a mower (Yes, a grass-cutting fellow!).  According the footnote Seventh Edition, since the mower wields a scythe, he can also call to mind other figures such as Time or Death.  (The Grim Reaper carries a scythe) What role does Juliana play in these poems?

  Week 14

Milton Questions

“On the Morning of Christ’s Nativity”

  1. How are Milton and Spenser’s allusions (look this word up if you don’t know it!) similar?
  2. How does Milton personify the Earth?
  3. What setting is described for Christ’s birth?
  4. Why do you think Milton uses so many references to pagan gods as he is describing the birth of the one true God?

“On Shakespeare”

  1. Why would kings wish for a tomb such as Shakespeare’s?  (Do not think literally about this question.)

“Lycidas”

  This poem is a pastoral elegy, which means (if you read the background) that it is a poem that mourns the death of someone from a shepherd’s point of view.  We will read more pastoral poetry (we read some last week with the “mower” poems) this year.  Pastorals tend to paint a very idyllic view of a shepherd’s life—we don’t catch a glimpse of the hard work that shepherds do, we don’t see the grime they daily live with and we certainly don’t smell the many pungent odors of a shepherd’s life when most poets write about them. Those of you who know the life of a shepherd (or farmer), think about what effect it has on you to read a sanitized version of this lifestyle—why do you think poets choose to write in this way?  Milton makes several references to the church and the “pastors” therein compared to the shepherds in the poem—a pastor is a shepherd.  Be aware of this. 

  1. What gift is Lycidas chiefly mourned for?
  2. How does the speaker describe the Muses (“nymphs”) to reveal his feelings towards them concerning the death of Lycidas?
  3. What criticism is revealed about the church? (bishops in particular)
  4. What comfort does the speaker offer to the other shepherds as they think on the loss of Lycidas?  In other words, what specifically has Lycidas gained?

“Areopagitica” (say this one five times fast)

This piece was written as Milton sought to publish his not-so-accepted views on divorce.  Please look up any words you are not familiar with and read all of the definitions—the first definition is not always the meaning intended.  One word you may not find is “stationer”—the stationers that Milton refers to were the 20 official printers, appointed by the government.  These stationers acted as censors of any printed material. “Licensing” is censorship.

  1. What gives books “life”, according to Milton?
  2. Milton suggests (strongly) that those in pursuit of true virtue should pursue, rather than avoid, all kinds of knowledge.  What does he think this pursuit does to one’s virtue?
  3. Why is a writer to be trusted when he presents his ideas?
  4. What ways does Milton personify Truth?
  5. What does Milton think censorship does to a man’s “desire to learn?”
  6. What does Milton say about Freedom and Truth?

Sonnets

“How Soon Hath Time”

Milton wrote this sonnet on his 23rd birthday and Milton was a young-looking 23.

  1. What is said about destiny in this poem?

“When I Consider How My Light Is Spent”

This poem was written after Milton went completely blind. 

  1. How does Milton use the parable of the talents in this poem?  You might reread that parable as you look at this poem.

“On the Late Massacre in Piedmont” 

This poem was written after many Italian Protestants were brutally slaughtered.

18.  Who does Milton compare to the whore of Babylon in this poem?

“Methought I Saw My Late Espoused Saint”

This poem was most likely written about Milton’s second wife, who he never saw because he married her after he went blind.

19. What vision does he describe?

Week 15

18th Century and Bunyan Questions

  1. As Great Britain became a “nation of readers”, what types of literature became popular?
  2. What rulers came to power to calm the instability in Britain?
  3. Why were the Georges not particularly interested in England?  (i.e. where did their sympathies lie?)
  4. What was the behavior (morally) of the nobility during Charles’ rule?
  5. What were some of the key philosophies circulating during the Restoration period?
  6. What defines the “modern individual”, according to the 7th edition?  (If you don’t have the 7th, guess!)
  7. What is “neoclassical” literature?
  8. What were some of these writers views on Nature?  (This background is particularly important as we head into next semester and the Romantic poets)
  9. How did the 18th century bring “poetry down to earth?”
  10. What changes took place in theater?
  11. What writer helped popularize the novel as a literary genre?

Bunyan’s “Grace Abounding”

  1. When Bunyan was struggling with his conscience, what did God show him?
  2. What book was most helpful to him in his struggles?
  3. Describe the “sell Christ” temptation that Bunyan went through.  What simile does he use to describe his despair when he fails to rise to this temptation?
  4. Why do you suppose the Norton Anthology has chosen to excerpt only the passages revealing Bunyan’s despair, rather than choosing to show us any of the hope he later realizes?

From “Pilgrim’s Progress”

  1. Please look up the word “allegory”, even if you are familiar with it.  (It’s in the back of the book in the terms section)  How does this piece fit the definition?
  2. Why does Christian leave his wife and family?
  3. What does Evangelist reveal to him?
  4. What is the difference between Christian and Dr. Faustus’ reaction to the verse “Fly from the wrath to come?”  In other words, what actions does each man take after hearing/seeing these words?
  5. What do the words “Obstinate” and “Pliable” mean and how do the characters by those names exemplify the definitions?
  6. What excuses does Obstinate give for not accompanying Christian on the journey?
  7. What happens in the “Slough of Despond”?
  8. What “burden” is Christian carrying on his back and why does it hinder his escape from the Slough?  How does this scene compare to the excerpts from “Grace Abounding”?
  9. What is Vanity Fair and how long has it been in existence?
  10. What set the pilgrims apart at Vanity Fair?
  11. What happens to the pilgrims in the River of Despair as they almost reach the Celestial City?  How is Christian helped through his trial?  What encouragement is offered by Hopeful?
  12. What is the fate of Ignorance and what verse(s) does this fate bring to mind?

       And now for something completely different…

 Samuel Butler from “Hudibras”

  1. What is a “travesty” or “burlesque” and how do these definitions fit “Hudibras”?
  2. List the several “qualities” possessed by Sir Hudibras.  How does Butler reveal that these qualities are really to be despised and ridiculed? (Go through each stanza on each quality and pick out specific quotes that reveal Butler’s disdain for Sir H.)
  3. What is Butler’s final description of the sect which Sir. H. belongs to?

Week 16

Swift and Pope Questions

  “Abolishing of Christianity in England”

  1. Swift wrote this piece of satire (look up this term) to voice his disagreement with the repeal of the Test Act (see footnote in book).  Instead of discussing the Test Act, what does Swift act as if the Parliament is REALLY proposing?
  2. What criticisms of the gospel does he put forward?
  3. What advantages will arise out of abolishing Christianity?
  4. What is Swift’s opinion of “freethinkers”?
  5. What does Swift reveal about his opinion of the state of Christianity in his day?
  6. What is the purpose of a “superior power?”
  7. Why does he compare Jesuits to Presbyterians, Anabaptists, Independents, and Quakers?
  8. What does Swift ultimately propose in this essay?

A Modest Proposal

 Swift based this piece on a popular metaphor, “The English are devouring the Irish”.  He takes this metaphor to its extreme conclusion.  Pay attention to adjectives in this essay, as well as other means Swift uses to manipulate his audience.

  1. What do Irish children grow up to become?
  2. What words does he use to describe Irish mothers?  If you are unfamiliar with these words, you must look them up to understand what he means.  How do these words cause us to view these mothers?
  3. When he refers to his American friend, what does he imply about Americans in general?
  4. What does he say about landlords and Papists? (Catholics)
  5. What can the carcasses of children be used for?
  6. Why does he argue against replacing deer-hunting with child-hunting?
  7. What benefits will be gained if his plan is implemented?
  8. Who does he urge politicians against his plan to talk to and why?
  9. Why will Swift gain nothing from this proposal?
  10. What is Swift really trying to say in this piece? Do you think he was successful or unsuccessful?  Why or why not?

“The Rape of the Lock”

This poem is written as a mock-heroic. (Look it up) Pope uses many elements of epic poetry in order to get his point across.  If you are unfamiliar with epic poetry, here are some things to look for: asking the “muses” for help in telling the tale, giving the heroes a god-like appearance, retelling a story and giving it mythical proportions, nature similes, and an elevated tone.

  1. Who are the Sylphs?
  2. What real life incident occurred which caused Pope to write this poem?
  3. How is Belinda described?
  4. Who warns her and what warning is she given?
  5. What things “early taint the female soul”? (canto I, line 87)
  6. Who is Shock?
  7. What, besides her natural beauty, makes Belinda so attractive?  This has to do with her “toilet” (not the same meaning as today—look it up!) and is similar to several scenes in the Odyssey.
  8. Describe Belinda’s character, when it comes to dealing with men.
  9. Why does Pope spend so much time describing her beauty and virtue?
  10. Who is the Baron and what does he want from Belinda?
  11. What role do the Sylphs play in the battle for the Lock?
  12. How does Pope make social activities at court sound like actions on a battlefield? Why do you think he does this?
  13. What “honors” does Belinda receive and how are they “snatched away”? canto 3, line 103
  14. How does Pope use myths throughout the poem?  (The footnotes explain the mythological allusions)
  15. What happens to the Sylph who tries to interfere with the cutting of the Lock?
  16. Read Canto 3, lines 155- to the end of Canto 3.  What images does Pope combine here and to what effect?
  17. What is Belinda’s reaction to the cutting of the Lock?
  18. What social repercussions does Belinda fear as she is shorn of her Lock?
  19. What adjectives are used to describe the Lock and the hands that cut it?
  20. How does Pope describe the interaction between men and women in canto 5?  How can a woman “kill” a man?
  21. What family heirloom becomes a weapon for Belinda and how does she use it?
  22. What does Belinda demand of Baron?
  23. What is the ultimate fate of the Lock?
  24. Compare this poem to Butler’s Hudibras.  How do burlesques and mock-heroics differ?  Do you think Butler or Pope is more successful in achieving his ends, or do both do well with the mediums they choose?

Week 17 Questions

Cowper, Johnson and Boswell  

Samuel Johnson, from A Dictionary of the English Language

Preface

           1.     What is laughable about writing a dictionary?

          2.         What happened in Italy and France when dictionaries were introduced? (i.e., how long were they “valid”?)

          3.         What things transform a language?

          4.