Essays And Criticism by William Hazlitt
- 1. Essays and Criticism by William Hazlitt is a remarkable collection that encapsulates the profound insights and eloquent prose of one of the foremost English essayists of the early 19th century. Hazlitt, known for his sharp intellect and keen observation of human nature, explores a wide array of subjects including literature, art, philosophy, and personal reflections on society. In this work, he deftly critiques the romantic poets, particularly the likes of Wordsworth and Coleridge, while also offering illuminating commentary on the nature of criticism itself. Hazlitt's essays are characterized by their conversational style, rich in rhetorical flourish and deep emotional resonance, inviting readers to engage with his passionate arguments on creativity and the arts. His ability to weave together personal experience with broader cultural critique allows for a deeply immersive reading experience that challenges conventional thinking. This collection not only serves as a critical lens through which to understand the literary movements of his time but also reflects Hazlitt's unique perspective on the human condition, making it a timeless contribution to both literary criticism and personal essay writing.
In 'My First Acquaintance with Poets,' which two poets does Hazlitt meet?
A) Byron and Shelley
B) Coleridge and Wordsworth
C) Keats and Blake
D) Pope and Dryden
- 2. Which of these is a hallmark of Hazlitt's familiar essay style?
A) Extensive use of complex mathematical formulas
B) A conversational and personal tone
C) Strict adherence to a rigid, impersonal structure
D) Writing exclusively in verse
- 3. Hazlitt's essay 'On Going a Journey' promotes the idea of solitude for what purpose?
A) Avoiding all human contact permanently
B) Finding a new job
C) Reflection and freedom of thought
D) Improving physical fitness
- 4. Which work by Hazlitt is a collection of his lectures on English poets?
A) Political Essays
B) Lectures on the English Poets
C) The Round Table
D) Table-Talk
- 5. Hazlitt was also known for his proficiency in what other field?
A) Astrology
B) Surgery
C) Engineering
D) Painting
- 6. In his criticism, Hazlitt often valued what in literature above strict rules?
A) Rhyming structure
B) Grammatical precision
C) Historical accuracy
D) Power and feeling
- 7. What personal event deeply affected Hazlitt and is reflected in 'Liber Amoris'?
A) The death of his child
B) Bankruptcy
C) A severe illness
D) An obsessive and unrequited love
- 8. Which publication was a major outlet for Hazlitt's essays?
A) The Wall Street Journal
B) The London Magazine
C) The Farmers' Almanac
D) Scientific American
- 9. The essay 'The Indian Jugglers' leads Hazlitt to meditate on what?
A) The history of India
B) Religious rituals
C) The nature of excellence and mastery
D) Cooking techniques
- 10. Hazlitt's essay 'On Criticism' argues that good criticism requires what?
A) Sympathy and understanding
B) Complete objectivity
C) A university degree
D) A hatred of the author
- 11. Which collection gives its name to Hazlitt's casual, discursive essay form?
A) Sketches and Essays
B) Winterlow
C) The Plain Speaker
D) Table-Talk
- 12. In which century did William Hazlitt primarily write?
A) 20th century
B) 17th century
C) 18th century
D) 19th century
- 13. Which Shakespearean character does Hazlitt analyze in a famous essay?
A) Macbeth
B) Oberon
C) Prospero
D) Hamlet
- 14. What personal experience heavily influenced Hazlitt's political views?
A) Disappointment with Napoleon
B) Running for Parliament
C) Managing a large estate
D) Serving in the British Navy
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