ENGL 4A Assessment

What is the term for words from different languages that look similar and mean the same thing?

• cognates

• synonyms

• antonyms

Which sentence best explains why modern English reflects the influence of several languages?

• The early inhabitants of Britain were seafaring traders who traveled to several countries.

• Between AD 500 and 1200, invaders from several countries conquered parts of Britain.

• The best-known authors of the Anglo-Saxon period used a mixture of several languages.

Etymology is the study of what?

• the correct pronunciation of words

• the origin and history of words

• word problems

Beowulf has all the characteristics of the _____ genre.

• epic

• fantasy

• tragedy

Beowulf is written in a _____ style that emphasizes the theme of heroism.

• casual

• lofty

• humorous

Which words best describe the relationship between King Hrothgar and Beowulf?

• mistrust and hatred

• competition and jealousy

• mutual respect and loyalty

What is the reason for the tragic end of the hero Beowulf?

• old age

• envy

• hubris

In The Canterbury Tales, Chaucer uses the technique of _____ story to hold the narrative together.

• frame

• fable

• folk

What was the main reason for the popularity of The Canterbury Tales in medieval England?

• The novelty of the theme and its treatment enthralled the audience.

• The work was originally in Latin, which made it popular with the nobility.

• It was written in Middle English, the language of the common people.

During the medieval period, which group played a key role in staging plays in various parts of towns?

• shop owners

• peasants

• trade guilds