Areopagitica by John Milton
- 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) Freedom of the press
B) Political governance
C) Religious doctrine
D) Educational reform
- 2. To whom is 'Areopagitica' addressed?
A) Parliament of England
B) The People
C) The King
D) The Church
- 3. What specific legislation was Milton protesting in 'Areopagitica'?
A) Act of Supremacy
B) Navigation Acts
C) Magna Carta
D) Licensing Order of 1643
- 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) They are unrelated
C) Temptation destroys virtue
D) Virtue requires choice
- 6. How does Milton view pre-publication censorship?
A) Divinely mandated
B) Useful but limited
C) Necessary for order
D) Ineffective and harmful
- 7. What religious context influenced 'Areopagitica'?
A) Catholic Reformation
B) Thirty Years War
C) Great Schism
D) English Civil War
- 8. How does Milton characterize the English people?
A) As rebellious and dangerous
B) As vigilant and seeking truth
C) As ignorant and needing guidance
D) As passive and obedient
- 9. What literary form does Milton use to structure his argument?
A) Socratic dialogue
B) Epic poetry
C) Biblical parable
D) Classical oration
- 10. How does Milton view the licensing system's effect on authors?
A) It improves quality
B) It encourages creativity
C) It protects their income
D) It discourages learning
- 11. What is the ultimate goal Milton seeks in 'Areopagitica'?
A) Political power
B) Religious uniformity
C) Economic reform
D) Intellectual freedom
- 12. In what form is 'Areopagitica' written?
A) A sonnet sequence
B) A prose pamphlet
C) A dramatic play
D) An epic poem
- 13. What does Milton compare censors to?
A) Egyptian priests
B) Medieval knights
C) Roman emperors
D) The Spanish Inquisition
- 14. What historical English figure does Milton praise for supporting learning?
A) King Henry VIII
B) William the Conqueror
C) Queen Elizabeth I
D) King Alfred the Great
|