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