The Futurological Congress by Stanislaw Lem - Exam
- 1. The Futurological Congress, a novel by renowned Polish author Stanislaw Lem, delves into the realms of speculative fiction and satirical commentary on society, technology, and the nature of reality. Set in a dystopian future, it follows the story of Ijon Tichy, a space traveler who attends an international conference on futurology in a world where humanity has developed sophisticated means to manipulate reality through drugs and mental conditioning. The narrative unfolds with Tichy navigating a bizarre and chaotic landscape, where the line between reality and illusion becomes increasingly blurred, revealing the absurdity and existential dilemmas surrounding human existence and progress. Lem's intricate prose weaves together themes of philosophical inquiry, the unpredictability of societal advancements, and the impact of artificial intelligence, as well as the ethical implications of altering human perception. The novel is not only a critique of utopian ideals and technological optimism but also a profound exploration of the human condition in the face of overwhelming change, making it a timeless piece that resonates with contemporary issues in technology and existential thought.
Who is the main character of 'The Futurological Congress'?
A) Ijon Tichy
B) Miriam C.
C) Eugene M.
D) Henryk S.
- 2. What event does Ijon Tichy attend in the novel?
A) Futurological Congress
B) Galactic Summit
C) Space Symposium
D) Interstellar Conference
- 3. What is the primary theme explored in the book?
A) Technological utopia
B) Time travel mechanics
C) Alien diplomacy
D) The nature of reality and perception
- 4. What is a major outcome of attending the Congress for Ijon Tichy?
A) He decides to leave Earth.
B) He questions the nature of reality.
C) He discovers time travel.
D) He becomes a politician.
- 5. What genre does 'The Futurological Congress' belong to?
A) Fantasy
B) Horror
C) Historical fiction
D) Science fiction
- 6. How does Lem's narrative style in the novel primarily unfold?
A) Complex mystery unraveling
B) Realistic and historical narrative
C) Linear and straightforward plot
D) Through absurdist and satirical elements
- 7. What existential question does Tichy grapple with?
A) What is knowledge?
B) What is time?
C) What is real?
D) What is love?
- 8. Which philosophical movement does Lem critique in the novel?
A) Utopianism
B) Empiricism
C) Rationalism
D) Existentialism
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