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