Of Revenge MCQs & Summary

Summary:

Francis Bacon’s essay Of Revenge discusses the dangers and futility of revenge. He describes revenge as a “wild kind of justice”, arguing that it perpetuates conflict rather than resolving issues. Bacon advises against personal revenge, suggesting that forgiveness is a sign of strength and wisdom. He warns that revenge keeps wounds fresh and prevents a person from moving forward. However, he makes an exception for public revenge in cases where justice has failed, arguing that such actions can restore order. Ultimately, Bacon asserts that wise individuals rise above revenge, choosing personal and moral growth over petty retribution.

MCQs:

1. What is the main theme of Bacon’s essay Of Revenge?
   a) The benefits of revenge
   b) The morality and consequences of revenge
   c) The political power of revenge
   d) The necessity of revenge for justice
   Answer: b) The morality and consequences of revenge
2. According to Bacon, what is the nature of revenge?
   a) It is a noble act
   b) It is a wild kind of justice
   c) It leads to ultimate peace
   d) It strengthens personal honor
   Answer: b) It is a wild kind of justice
3. What does Bacon suggest as an alternative to revenge?
   a) Forgiveness
   b) Violence
   c) Legal action
   d) Negotiation
   Answer: a) Forgiveness

   

4. Why does Bacon argue against revenge?
   a) It is ineffective in punishing wrongdoers
   b) It is costly and time-consuming
   c) It keeps wounds fresh and leads to continuous harm
   d) It brings power but no happiness
   Answer: c) It keeps wounds fresh and leads to continuous harm
5. Which famous saying aligns with Bacon’s views in Of Revenge?
   a) “Revenge is a dish best served cold.”
   b) “An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.”
   c) “Vengeance is mine, I will repay.”
   d) “Fortune favors the brave.”
   Answer: b) “An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.”
6. How does Bacon differentiate public revenge from private revenge?
   a) Public revenge is justifiable, but private revenge is selfish
   b) Both are necessary for justice
   c) Private revenge is more honorable
   d) Public revenge leads to chaos
   Answer: a) Public revenge is justifiable, but private revenge is selfish
7. What does Bacon believe revenge does to a person?
   a) Elevates their status
   b) Corrupts their soul
   c) Makes them wiser
   d) Increases their strength
   Answer: b) Corrupts their soul
8. What historical figures does Bacon reference in Of Revenge?
   a) Julius Caesar and Augustus
   b) Solomon and Seneca
   c) Alexander the Great and Hannibal
   d) Machiavelli and Aristotle
   Answer: b) Solomon and Seneca
9. According to Bacon, what type of people avoid revenge?
   a) The weak and fearful
   b) The wise and noble
   c) The rich and powerful
   d) The ambitious and greedy
   Answer: b) The wise and noble
10. What final advice does Bacon give regarding revenge?
    a) Seek revenge only in extreme cases
    b) Avoid revenge and focus on personal growth
    c) Take revenge quickly and move on
    d) Revenge should be done with careful planning
    Answer: b) Avoid revenge and focus on personal growth