- 1. The Praise of Folly, written by Desiderius Erasmus in 1509, is a seminal work of Renaissance humanism that combines satirical wit with incisive social commentary. In this engaging essay, Folly, personified as a charming and eloquent woman, delivers a compelling monologue extolling the virtues of foolishness and criticizing the pretensions of society's learned elite, including philosophers, theologians, and princes. Through her lively discourse, Folly reveals the absurdities of human behavior and the paradoxes of wisdom, suggesting that those who embrace folly often lead happier and more fulfilling lives than those burdened by the weight of serious knowledge and societal expectations. Erasmus employs a rich tapestry of classical references, humor, and poignant observations to challenge the hypocrisy and moral failings of his contemporaries. He advocates for a more genuine form of Christianity that emphasizes inner spirituality over rigid dogma, promoting the idea that true wisdom may often be found in simplicity and humility. As a result, The Praise of Folly not only serves as a critique of Renaissance society but also as a timeless exploration of human nature, inviting readers to reflect on the nature of folly, wisdom, and the complexities of the human condition.
Who is the author of 'The Praise of Folly'?
A) Erasmus
B) Dante
C) Shakespeare
D) Cervantes
- 2. To whom did Erasmus dedicate the book?
A) Thomas More
B) Pope Leo X
C) Martin Luther
D) King Henry VIII
- 3. What literary form does 'The Praise of Folly' primarily employ?
A) Historical novel
B) Tragic play
C) Epic poem
D) Satirical oration
- 4. What is Folly's main argument in the book?
A) That science will save humanity
B) That folly is essential to human happiness
C) That religion is the only path
D) That wisdom leads to true power
- 5. Which group is a primary target of Erasmus's satire?
A) Artists and musicians
B) Theologians and clergy
C) Farmers and peasants
D) Merchants and traders
- 6. In what year was 'The Praise of Folly' first published?
A) 1450
B) 1521
C) 1511
D) 1605
- 7. What does Folly claim to be her parentage?
A) Love and Hate
B) Wealth and Youth
C) Wisdom and Courage
D) Earth and Sky
- 8. How does Folly view self-love?
A) As a purely negative trait
B) As the greatest sin
C) As a sign of true wisdom
D) As a necessary and beneficial delusion
- 9. Which classical author's style does Erasmus imitate?
A) Lucian
B) Homer
C) Cicero
D) Virgil
- 10. Which class does Folly claim to be indispensable to?
A) All classes of society
B) Only the ruling class
C) Only the religious class
D) Only the working class
- 11. How does Folly describe childhood?
A) As a time of great sorrow
B) As unimportant
C) As a time of learning
D) As the happiest time of life
- 12. According to Folly, what is true wisdom?
A) Knowledge of science
B) Political cunning
C) Understanding God fully
D) A form of madness
- 13. What was the primary language Erasmus wrote in?
A) Dutch
B) Greek
C) English
D) Latin
- 14. The book is considered a precursor to which major religious movement?
A) The Great Schism
B) The Crusades
C) The Protestant Reformation
D) The Inquisition
- 15. What is the ultimate paradox presented in the book?
A) Love is a disease
B) Kings are always wise
C) Science is foolish
D) Christian folly is true wisdom
- 16. In what century was 'The Praise of Folly' written?
A) 15th
B) 14th
C) 17th
D) 16th
- 17. Which powerful institution is a central subject of the satire?
A) The merchant guilds
B) The University system
C) The Holy Roman Empire
D) The Papacy
- 18. The work is a prime example of which broader European intellectual movement?
A) The Baroque
B) Renaissance Humanism
C) Gothic Romanticism
D) The Enlightenment
- 19. What is the primary literary device used throughout 'The Praise of Folly'?
A) Satire
B) Epic poetry
C) Tragedy
D) Allegory
- 20. What is the primary target of Erasmus's satire?
A) Scientific ignorance
B) Church corruption
C) Political tyranny
D) Social inequality
- 21. Folly argues that what emotion is crucial for friendship?
A) Loyalty
B) Generosity
C) Self-deception
D) Honesty
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