Midsummer Test

Which of the following are possible reasons why Shakespeare's work is still performed, read, and taught in schools around the world?

• Because his works explore universal themes and human nature.

• Because his plays are only relevant to people in England.

• Because his language and storytelling have influenced literature and culture.

• Because his works are required by law to be taught in every country.

Match each word invented by Shakespeare to its meaning:

• Swagger

• speak or shout at length in a wild, impassioned way

• Amazement

• a feeling of great surprise or wonder

• Rant

• walk or behave in a very confident and typically arrogant or aggressive way

• Champion

• a person who fights or argues for a cause or on behalf of someone else

• Elbow

• the joint between the forearm and the upper arm

What is the Elizabethan English word for 'No'?

• Nay

• Yea

• Aye

• Verily

What is the Elizabethan English word for 'Maybe'?

• Perchance

• Anon

• Hither

• Fain

Which of the following is the correct Elizabethan English translation of the sentence: Curse you, boy! Why are you my enemy?

• Avaunt, thou knave! Wherefore art thou mine adversary?

• Begone, young sir! Dost thou oppose me thus?

• Fie on thee, child! Why dost thou vex me?

• Away with thee, boy! What cause hast thou to hate me?

What are the three ‘solutions’ Theseus gives to Hermia?

• 1. Marry Demetrius 2. Become a nun 3. Face death

• 1. Marry Lysander 2. Leave Athens 3. Become queen

• 1. Run away 2. Marry Lysander 3. Join the fairies

• 1. Become a servant 2. Marry Theseus 3. Live alone

Who is Theseus in the opening scene and which adjective best describes your first impression of him?

• Athenian king; bossy

• Athenian servant; quiet

• Spartan warrior; shy

• Athenian messenger; timid

Who is Hippolyta in the opening scene, and which adjective best describes your first impression of her?

• Queen of the Amazons; quiet

• Queen of the Amazons; bossy

• Queen of the Amazons; timid

• Queen of the Amazons; aggressive

Egeus in the opening scene can best be described as:

• bossy and authoritative

• quiet and shy

• playful and humorous

• indifferent and careless

Who is Hermia in the opening scene? Choose the best description and key adjectives.

• A rebellious young woman, determined and passionate

• A strict ruler, cold and distant

• A comic character, foolish and clumsy

• A wise elder, calm and patient