On the Death of Dr. Robert Levet MCQs & Summary

Summary:

Samuel Johnson’s On the Death of Dr. Robert Levet is an elegiac poem mourning the loss of his friend, Dr. Robert Levet, a physician known for his selfless service to the poor. The poem honors Levet’s humble and compassionate life, portraying him as a man devoted to helping those in need rather than seeking wealth or fame.

Johnson reflects on Levet’s daily routines, his dedication to his patients, and his quiet, unpretentious existence. Despite his lack of social prestige, Levet is depicted as a man of true virtue, whose passing leaves a void in the lives of those he aided. The poem contrasts his genuine service with the superficial pursuits of society, emphasizing themes of mortality, humility, and the value of a life lived for others.

The tone of the poem is sorrowful yet reverent, as Johnson acknowledges both the inevitability of death and the enduring impact of a life well spent.

MCQs:

1. Who wrote On the Death of Dr. Robert Levet?
   a) Alexander Pope
   b) Samuel Johnson
   c) William Blake
   d) John Milton
   Answer: b) Samuel Johnson
2. What is the main theme of the poem?
   a) The pursuit of wealth
   b) The importance of social status
   c) The virtue of selfless service
   d) The power of political influence
   Answer: c) The virtue of selfless service
3. Who was Dr. Robert Levet?
   a) A wealthy physician
   b) A doctor who served the poor
   c) A famous poet
   d) A nobleman in Johnson’s circle
   Answer: b) A doctor who served the poor

   

4. What poetic form is used in On the Death of Dr. Robert Levet?
   a) Sonnet
   b) Elegy
   c) Epic
   d) Ballad
   Answer: b) Elegy
5. What does Johnson emphasize about Levet’s character?
   a) His arrogance and ambition
   b) His wealth and influence
   c) His humility and dedication to others
   d) His love for poetry
   Answer: c) His humility and dedication to others
6. What is the poem’s tone?
   a) Celebratory and joyful
   b) Satirical and humorous
   c) Sorrowful yet respectful
   d) Indifferent and detached
   Answer: c) Sorrowful yet respectful
7. What does Johnson contrast in the poem?
   a) City life and rural life
   b) Material wealth and moral virtue
   c) Love and war
   d) Religion and science
   Answer: b) Material wealth and moral virtue
8. What is a key message of the poem?
   a) Fame is the most important achievement
   b) Wealth defines a person’s worth
   c) A humble life of service is valuable
   d) Scientific advancements can prevent death
   Answer: c) A humble life of service is valuable
9. How does Johnson describe Levet’s impact on the poor?
   a) As insignificant and unrecognized
   b) As deeply meaningful and compassionate
   c) As harmful and misleading
   d) As superior to all other physicians
   Answer: b) As deeply meaningful and compassionate
10. What does Johnson say about death in the poem?
    a) It is a punishment for the wicked
    b) It is an escape from suffering
    c) It is inevitable but does not erase a virtuous life
    d) It is a reward for the rich
    Answer: c) It is inevitable but does not erase a virtuous life