- 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) Cervantes
C) Shakespeare
D) Dante
- 2. To whom did Erasmus dedicate the book?
A) Pope Leo X
B) King Henry VIII
C) Martin Luther
D) Thomas More
- 3. What literary form does 'The Praise of Folly' primarily employ?
A) Tragic play
B) Historical novel
C) Satirical oration
D) Epic poem
- 4. What is Folly's main argument in the book?
A) That science will save humanity
B) That religion is the only path
C) That wisdom leads to true power
D) That folly is essential to human happiness
- 5. Which group is a primary target of Erasmus's satire?
A) Theologians and clergy
B) Merchants and traders
C) Artists and musicians
D) Farmers and peasants
- 6. In what year was 'The Praise of Folly' first published?
A) 1450
B) 1521
C) 1605
D) 1511
- 7. What does Folly claim to be her parentage?
A) Wisdom and Courage
B) Love and Hate
C) Wealth and Youth
D) Earth and Sky
- 8. How does Folly view self-love?
A) As a sign of true wisdom
B) As the greatest sin
C) As a necessary and beneficial delusion
D) As a purely negative trait
- 9. Which classical author's style does Erasmus imitate?
A) Homer
B) Cicero
C) Virgil
D) Lucian
- 10. Which class does Folly claim to be indispensable to?
A) All classes of society
B) Only the religious class
C) Only the ruling class
D) Only the working class
- 11. How does Folly describe childhood?
A) As a time of great sorrow
B) As a time of learning
C) As the happiest time of life
D) As unimportant
- 12. According to Folly, what is true wisdom?
A) Knowledge of science
B) Political cunning
C) A form of madness
D) Understanding God fully
- 13. What was the primary language Erasmus wrote in?
A) Dutch
B) English
C) Greek
D) Latin
- 14. The book is considered a precursor to which major religious movement?
A) The Great Schism
B) The Protestant Reformation
C) The Inquisition
D) The Crusades
- 15. What is the ultimate paradox presented in the book?
A) Science is foolish
B) Kings are always wise
C) Christian folly is true wisdom
D) Love is a disease
- 16. In what century was 'The Praise of Folly' written?
A) 15th
B) 16th
C) 14th
D) 17th
- 17. Which powerful institution is a central subject of the satire?
A) The University system
B) The merchant guilds
C) The Holy Roman Empire
D) The Papacy
- 18. The work is a prime example of which broader European intellectual movement?
A) The Enlightenment
B) The Baroque
C) Renaissance Humanism
D) Gothic Romanticism
- 19. What is the primary literary device used throughout 'The Praise of Folly'?
A) Tragedy
B) Satire
C) Epic poetry
D) Allegory
- 20. What is the primary target of Erasmus's satire?
A) Political tyranny
B) Social inequality
C) Scientific ignorance
D) Church corruption
- 21. Folly argues that what emotion is crucial for friendship?
A) Loyalty
B) Generosity
C) Self-deception
D) Honesty
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