On Shakespeare MCQs & Summary

Summary:

On Shakespeare is a poem by John Milton that reflects on the greatness of William Shakespeare as a poet and playwright. The poem was written as an elegy, mourning the death of Shakespeare and acknowledging his immense contribution to literature. Milton praises Shakespeare’s ability to capture the human experience with such depth and universality, making his work timeless. He also compares Shakespeare’s artistic genius to the classical writers of antiquity, noting that Shakespeare’s work transcends all other poets. Milton’s admiration for Shakespeare is clear, and he emphasizes that Shakespeare’s legacy will endure for generations. The poem portrays Shakespeare as an immortal figure whose works continue to inspire and influence future writers and audiences.

MCQs:

1. What is the main theme of On Shakespeare?
   a) Criticism of Shakespeare’s work
   b) The immortality of Shakespeare’s genius
   c) The influence of classical literature
   d) A personal tribute to Shakespeare
   Answer: b) The immortality of Shakespeare’s genius
2. What does Milton suggest about Shakespeare’s writing in the poem?
   a) That it is overly complex
   b) That it is comparable to classical literature
   c) That it lacks depth
   d) That it is too controversial
   Answer: b) That it is comparable to classical literature
3. How does Milton refer to Shakespeare’s influence on future generations?
   a) Shakespeare’s works are destined to fade
   b) Shakespeare’s works will be celebrated forever
   c) Shakespeare’s works are a passing trend
   d) Shakespeare’s works are only relevant in his time
   Answer: b) Shakespeare’s works will be celebrated forever

   

4. Which of the following does Milton use to praise Shakespeare in the poem?
   a) By comparing him to classical poets like Homer and Virgil
   b) By discussing his personal life
   c) By emphasizing his commercial success
   d) By focusing on his lesser-known works
   Answer: a) By comparing him to classical poets like Homer and Virgil
5. What does Milton say about the critics of Shakespeare in On Shakespeare?
   a) They will have the last word
   b) They will be silenced by Shakespeare’s greatness
   c) They are the true heirs to Shakespeare’s legacy
   d) They do not matter in the grand scheme of literature
   Answer: b) They will be silenced by Shakespeare’s greatness
6. Which literary device does Milton primarily use in On Shakespeare to elevate Shakespeare’s legacy?
   a) Irony
   b) Hyperbole
   c) Allusion
   d) Personification
   Answer: c) Allusion
7. What is Milton’s overall attitude toward Shakespeare in On Shakespeare?
   a) Indifferent
   b) Admiration and reverence
   c) Critical and analytical
   d) Disbelief at his success
   Answer: b) Admiration and reverence
8. How does Milton characterize Shakespeare’s ability to write?
   a) As skillful but not transcendent
   b) As mediocre in comparison to other poets
   c) As unmatched and divine
   d) As fleeting and ephemeral
   Answer: c) As unmatched and divine
9. What is the tone of the poem?
   a) Angry and critical
   b) Melancholic and mournful
   c) Celebratory and reverent
   d) Pessimistic and regretful
   Answer: c) Celebratory and reverent
10. Which aspect of Shakespeare’s legacy is emphasized by Milton?
    a) His skill with language
    b) His timeless influence
    c) His ability to create tragedies
    d) His popularity among his contemporaries
    Answer: b) His timeless influence