Areopagitica by John Milton - Test
- 1. Areopagitica, written by John Milton in 1644, is a seminal work advocating for the freedom of speech and the press. This prose piece is structured as a speech to the Parliament of England, arguing vehemently against the Licensing Order of 1643, which imposed pre-publication censorship on books. Milton posits that the restriction of ideas and literature not only stifles intellectual growth but also undermines the search for truth, which he asserts is essential for a healthy society. In his eloquent and impassioned prose, he draws upon classical references and philosophical arguments, advocating for the notion that individuals should be free to explore and debate all ideas, regardless of their nature. Milton contends that through exposure to a diverse range of thoughts, individuals are better equipped to discern truth from falsehood, a principle he believed was vital for both personal salvation and societal progress. The work is notable not only for its rich language and rhetorical power but also for its profound influence on the development of modern ideas surrounding free speech and the marketplace of ideas, making it a cornerstone in discussions of civil liberties and democratic governance.
What is the main subject of John Milton's 'Areopagitica'?
A) Educational reform
B) Freedom of the press
C) Religious doctrine
D) Political governance
- 2. To whom is 'Areopagitica' addressed?
A) Parliament of England
B) The King
C) The Church
D) The People
- 3. What specific legislation was Milton protesting in 'Areopagitica'?
A) Navigation Acts
B) Licensing Order of 1643
C) Magna Carta
D) Act of Supremacy
- 4. In what year was 'Areopagitica' published?
A) 1642
B) 1651
C) 1649
D) 1644
- 5. According to Milton, what is the relationship between virtue and temptation?
A) Virtue avoids temptation
B) Temptation destroys virtue
C) They are unrelated
D) Virtue requires choice
- 6. How does Milton view pre-publication censorship?
A) Necessary for order
B) Divinely mandated
C) Ineffective and harmful
D) Useful but limited
- 7. What religious context influenced 'Areopagitica'?
A) Catholic Reformation
B) English Civil War
C) Great Schism
D) Thirty Years War
- 8. How does Milton characterize the English people?
A) As vigilant and seeking truth
B) As ignorant and needing guidance
C) As passive and obedient
D) As rebellious and dangerous
- 9. What literary form does Milton use to structure his argument?
A) Biblical parable
B) Socratic dialogue
C) Epic poetry
D) Classical oration
- 10. How does Milton view the licensing system's effect on authors?
A) It improves quality
B) It protects their income
C) It encourages creativity
D) It discourages learning
- 11. What is the ultimate goal Milton seeks in 'Areopagitica'?
A) Religious uniformity
B) Economic reform
C) Intellectual freedom
D) Political power
- 12. In what form is 'Areopagitica' written?
A) A sonnet sequence
B) An epic poem
C) A prose pamphlet
D) A dramatic play
- 13. What does Milton compare censors to?
A) Medieval knights
B) The Spanish Inquisition
C) Roman emperors
D) Egyptian priests
- 14. What historical English figure does Milton praise for supporting learning?
A) Queen Elizabeth I
B) King Henry VIII
C) King Alfred the Great
D) William the Conqueror
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