Theatre History and Theory: Explore the Evolution of Theatre

Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of Expressionism in theatre?

Accepted Answer

Detailed and naturalistic acting

Answer

Heightened emotional expression and subjective perspectives

Answer

Stylized and symbolic scenery and costumes

Answer

Non-naturalistic dialogue and heightened language

Question 2

Which defining characteristic is associated with Naturalism in theatre?

Accepted Answer

Depicting ordinary life experiences in realistic settings

Answer

Emphasizing heightened language and stylized movement

Answer

Exploring universal themes through archetypal characters

Answer

Utilizing symbolic imagery and abstract set designs

Question 3

Which characteristic of Expressionism in theatre involves rejecting a realistic depiction of everyday life?

Accepted Answer

Distortion of forms to convey emotions

Answer

Emphasis on personal experiences

Answer

Use of symbols and allegories

Answer

Focus on actors' physicality and emotions

Question 4

Which theatrical style emerged as a response to the social and political upheaval of the early 20th century?

Accepted Answer

Expressionism

Answer

Neoclassicism

Answer

Romanticism

Answer

Surrealism

Question 5

Which feature was a defining characteristic of Baroque theatre?

Accepted Answer

Elaborate staging, costumes, and use of stage machinery

Answer

Emphasis on realism and naturalism in performances

Answer

Exploration of social and political themes as central focus

Answer

Development and widespread adoption of the proscenium stage

Question 6

In the Theatre of the Absurd movement, which playwright is renowned for their significant contributions?

Accepted Answer

Samuel Beckett

Answer

William Shakespeare

Answer

Anton Chekhov

Answer

George Bernard Shaw

Question 7

Which characteristic is NOT associated with Epic theatre?

Accepted Answer

Reliance on spectacle and illusion

Answer

Alienation of the audience

Answer

Emphasis on collective action

Answer

Use of didactic elements

Question 8

Which of these is NOT a typical feature of Greek theatre?

Accepted Answer

Elaborate costumes and lavish props

Answer

Use of masks

Answer

Emphasis on plot and storytelling

Answer

Chorus providing commentary and insights

Question 9

What is a defining characteristic of Greek theatre?

Accepted Answer

Chorus

Accepted Answer

Amphitheatrical seating

Answer

Elaborate scenery

Answer

Extensive stage machinery

Question 10

Expressionism, a key movement in early 20th-century theatre, is known for:

Accepted Answer

Intense emotions and distorted reality

Answer

Realistic dialogue and authentic settings

Answer

Traditional plot structures with clear endings

Question 11

What is a defining characteristic of the Theatre of the Absurd?

Accepted Answer

Rejection of traditional dramatic structures and conventions

Answer

Emphasis on realism and naturalism

Answer

Use of heightened language and poetic imagery

Answer

Focus on political and social issues

Question 12

Which theatre movement employs masks, physicality, and ritualistic elements to express characters' inner emotions and experiences?

Accepted Answer

Expressionism

Answer

Naturalism

Answer

Realism

Question 13

Which theatrical style emphasizes spectacular visual effects, intricate stage machinery, and a director-led approach?

Accepted Answer

Spectacle theatre

Answer

Naturalism

Answer

Expressionism

Answer

Epic theatre

Question 14

Which architectural feature is NOT commonly found in Greek amphitheatres?

Accepted Answer

Elaborate stage machinery

Answer

Open-air setting

Answer

Circular or semicircular shape

Answer

Sloping seating

Question 15

What is the defining characteristic of Expressionist theatre?

Accepted Answer

Distorted forms, heightened emotions, and symbolic imagery

Answer

Realistic sets and costumes

Answer

Exploration of historical events and social issues

Question 16

In Aristotle's theory of tragedy, as presented in his work 'Poetics', which element is deemed essential for an effective drama?

Accepted Answer

Plot

Answer

Spectacle

Answer

Character

Answer

Theme

Question 17

Which theatre period prioritized spectacle and intense emotions?

Accepted Answer

Romantic theatre

Answer

Medieval theatre

Answer

Renaissance theatre

Answer

Neoclassical theatre

Question 18

Which architectural feature in Roman theatres transformed the audience experience by creating a distinct visual divide between the stage and seating area?

Accepted Answer

An elaborate proscenium arch framing the stage and enhancing visual focus

Answer

A revolving stage for smooth scene transitions

Answer

A thrust stage projecting into the audience seating

Answer

A system of stage machinery for captivating special effects

Question 19

In Expressionism, theatre artists convey inner emotions and subjective experiences through:

Accepted Answer

Distorted forms, exaggerated emotions, and subjective perspectives

Answer

Naturalistic dialogue and realistic settings

Answer

Linear narrative structures and conventional plots

Question 20

Which of the following is a defining characteristic of Brechtian theatre?

Accepted Answer

Detachment and alienation from the audience

Answer

Elaborate stage designs and costumes

Answer

Audience involvement and participation

Answer

Complex and intricate plot structures

Question 21

Which two factors played a significant role in shaping the development of theatre in ancient Greece?

Accepted Answer

Homer's epic poems and religious festivals honoring Dionysus

Answer

Hindu religious practices and ancient Egyptian storytelling traditions

Answer

Medieval morality plays and Renaissance commedia dell'arte

Question 22

Which physical theatre practitioner is renowned for integrating masks, mime, and highly stylized movements into their performances?

Accepted Answer

Jacques Lecoq

Answer

Grotowski

Answer

Stanislavski

Answer

Brecht

Question 23

Which theatrical movement is known for using non-linear narratives, presenting absurd situations, and breaking away from traditional plot structures?

Accepted Answer

Theatre of the Absurd

Answer

Realism

Answer

Naturalism

Answer

Symbolism

Question 24

Who is a key playwright associated with the Theatre of the Absurd movement?

Accepted Answer

Eugene Ionesco

Answer

Anton Chekhov

Answer

William Shakespeare

Question 25

Within the Theatre of the Absurd, which technique employs dialogue that intentionally deviates from the plot or ongoing action, often disrupting the narrative flow?

Accepted Answer

Non-sequitur dialogue

Answer

Linear progression

Answer

Stream of consciousness

Answer

Allegory

Question 26

Which theatrical movement broke away from traditional forms, embraced non-linear narratives, and explored absurdist themes?

Accepted Answer

Theatre of the Absurd

Answer

Neoclassicism

Answer

Romanticism

Answer

Realism

Question 27

Which 19th-century theatrical movement broke away from traditional forms, experimenting with new techniques and styles that avoided realism and emotional extremes?

Accepted Answer

Symbolism

Answer

Naturalism

Answer

Realism

Answer

Expressionism

Question 28

Which technique is a defining characteristic of Bertolt Brecht's theatre?

Accepted Answer

Employment of Verfremdungseffekt

Answer

Extensive use of song and dance

Answer

Emphasis on emotional connection

Answer

Extensive use of subtext and symbolism

Question 29

What fundamental characteristic is shared by early theatre forms, such as those in ancient Greece and traditional African societies?

Accepted Answer

Focus on ritual, myth, and storytelling

Answer

Elaborate stage machinery and special effects

Answer

Emphasis on psychological realism and naturalism

Question 30

In the Golden Age of Athens, what was the primary function of the city's theatre?

Accepted Answer

Promote civic education and discourse.

Answer

Provide entertainment for the wealthy.

Answer

Preserve religious customs.

Answer

Showcase individual acting skills.

Question 31

Immersive theatre is a form of theatre that aims to prioritize which aspect of the audience experience?

Accepted Answer

Intensified emotional engagement and empathy with characters

Answer

Traditional narrative structures and staging techniques

Answer

Minimal audience interaction and restricted sensory stimulation

Answer

Elaborate sets and lavish costumes that dominate the stage

Question 32

What is a key feature of the Theatre of the Absurd?

Accepted Answer

Exploration of existential themes and the absurdity of human existence

Answer

Traditional plot structures and linear narratives

Answer

Realistic acting styles and naturalistic set designs

Answer

Clear and unambiguous language

Question 33

Which playwright is renowned for their Theatre of the Absurd plays, exploring existentialism and alienation as key themes?

Accepted Answer

Samuel Beckett

Answer

Anton Chekhov

Answer

Henrik Ibsen

Answer

George Bernard Shaw

Question 34

In ancient Greek theatre, what was the main purpose of the chorus?

Accepted Answer

Narrate and comment on the play's events

Answer

Provide comedic interludes between scenes

Answer

Celebrate religious festivals through song and dance

Answer

Create background music and sound effects

Question 35

What is a key characteristic of the Realist theatre movement?

Accepted Answer

Aim to portray life realistically

Answer

Use of elaborate language and poetic devices

Answer

Exploration of subconscious desires and dream imagery

Answer

Incorporation of symbolic masks and non-naturalistic costumes

Question 36

According to Aristotle's theory of tragedy outlined in "Poetics", which element is considered the most crucial aspect of a successful drama?

Accepted Answer

Plot

Answer

Spectacle

Answer

Character

Answer

Theme

Question 37

Which of the following best describes the core principles of Method acting?

Accepted Answer

A method that emphasizes psychological realism, in-depth character analysis, and emotional immersion.

Answer

A stylized approach characterized by exaggerated physicality and vocal expression.

Answer

A technique that focuses solely on physical and vocal aspects, neglecting psychological depth.

Question 38

In Realism, a theatre movement that emerged in the late 19th century, which convention is used to enhance the sense of authenticity and immerse the audience?

Accepted Answer

The audience observing events as if through an invisible barrier

Answer

Actors directly addressing the audience

Answer

Extensive use of symbols to convey abstract ideas

Question 39

How does Eugene Ionesco's unique approach to characterization and dialogue contribute to the impact of his absurdist plays?

Accepted Answer

It creates a sense of alienation and uncertainty, reflecting the existential themes in his plays.

Answer

It enhances the realistic portrayal of everyday speech, making his plays more relatable.

Answer

It provides a clear narrative structure, allowing audiences to follow the plot easily.

Answer

It relies heavily on physical comedy and slapstick, eliciting laughter from audiences.

Question 40

Which of the following is a defining feature of contemporary theatre?

Accepted Answer

Focus on immersive and interactive experiences

Answer

Emphasis on traditional forms and techniques

Answer

Reliance on naturalistic acting styles

Answer

Rejection of technology in performance

Question 41

Which characteristic is NOT associated with Bertolt Brecht's Epic Theatre?

Accepted Answer

Focuses on character development and emotional release

Answer

Encourages audience participation and critical thinking

Answer

Uses techniques to distance the audience and promote analysis

Question 42

What key characteristic sets Romantic theatre apart from other movements?

Accepted Answer

Exploration of individual emotions, imagination, and personal expression

Answer

Emphasis on stark realism and minimal staging

Answer

Strict adherence to traditional theatrical forms

Question 43

Which characteristic is NOT distinctive to Expressionism in theatre?

Accepted Answer

Actors wearing full-face masks

Answer

Distortion and exaggeration of forms

Answer

Emphasis on personal experiences

Answer

Heightened use of symbolism and metaphor

Question 44

How did the political and social climate of the early 20th century contribute to the rise of Expressionist theatre?

Accepted Answer

Expressionism emerged as a response to the disillusionment and anxiety caused by World War I and the subsequent social and political upheaval.

Answer

Expressionism was influenced by the artistic styles of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism.

Answer

Expressionism emerged as a form of political protest against the rise of fascism and communism.

Question 45

How did Expressionist playwrights and theatre practitioners explore themes of alienation, identity, and meaning-making in a rapidly changing world?

Accepted Answer

They used fragmented dialogue, abstract imagery, and distorted perspectives to portray the inner turmoil and alienation of individuals.

Answer

They depicted the banality and meaninglessness of everyday life through realistic and mundane events.

Answer

They emphasized the power of reason and logic to solve societal problems.

Answer

They avoided discussing political and social issues, believing that art should focus solely on aesthetic beauty.

Question 46

In Expressionist theatre, how did the focus on the subconscious and inner psyche translate into the performances and staging of productions?

Accepted Answer

A. Actors used exaggerated gestures and distorted speech to express inner turmoil.

Answer

B. Set designs were realistic, depicting everyday life settings.

Answer

C. Lighting was used to create a naturalistic atmosphere.

Question 47

In what ways did Expressionist theatre diverge from the principles of dramatic realism and naturalism?

Accepted Answer

Emphasized heightened emotions, symbolism, and distorted characters and settings

Answer

Strictly followed the Aristotelian unities of time, place, and action

Answer

Focused on using everyday language and realistic costumes

Answer

Incorporated elements of medieval morality plays

Question 48

How did Expressionist theatre's emphasis on personal experiences and heightened emotions contribute to the rise of psychological realism in theatre and film?

Accepted Answer

Expressionist theatre's focus on individual experiences laid the foundation for psychological realism's exploration of inner psychology.

Answer

Expressionist theatre's use of abstract elements hindered the development of psychological realism.

Answer

Expressionist theatre's techniques, such as distortion, became outdated in psychological realism.

Answer

Expressionist theatre had no influence on the development of psychological realism in theatre and film.

Question 49

How did Expressionist theatre mirror the social and cultural anxieties of post-World War I Europe?

Accepted Answer

It reflected the disillusionment and alienation of the era, exploring themes of isolation and meaninglessness.

Answer

It expressed the post-war optimism through its focus on order and clarity.

Answer

It depicted everyday life and naturalistic dialogue, avoiding stylized elements.

Answer

It provided escapism from reality, offering a fantastical experience.

Question 50

Identify the birthplace of Western theatre.

Accepted Answer

Greece

Answer

Rome

Answer

Egypt

Answer

China

Question 51

Who is widely regarded as the father of modern theatre?

Accepted Answer

Konstantin Stanislavski

Answer

William Shakespeare

Answer

Antonin Artaud

Answer

Bertolt Brecht

Question 52

Which theatrical movement emphasized non-verbal expression, physicality, and ritualistic elements?

Accepted Answer

Expressionism

Answer

Naturalism

Answer

Epic Theatre

Answer

Theatre of the Absurd

Question 53

Identify the playwright known for exploring existential themes within their works.

Accepted Answer

Samuel Beckett

Answer

George Bernard Shaw

Answer

Oscar Wilde

Answer

Eugene O'Neill

Question 54

What is the name of the acting technique developed by Konstantin Stanislavski?

Accepted Answer

Stanislavski System

Answer

Meisner Technique

Answer

Grotowski Method

Answer

Actors Studio Method

Question 55

Which British playwright is recognized for their poetic language and exploration of female identity?

Accepted Answer

Caryl Churchill

Answer

Harold Pinter

Answer

David Hare

Answer

Tom Stoppard

Question 56

Describe the primary role of a dramaturg in the context of theatre.

Accepted Answer

Historical research and context provision

Answer

Costume design

Answer

Music composition

Answer

Artistic direction

Question 57

What is the primary purpose of technical rehearsals in a theatre production?

Accepted Answer

Lighting and sound cue setup

Answer

Dialogue rehearsal

Answer

Actor stage familiarization

Answer

Stage combat practice

Question 58

How did Expressionist theatre revolutionize audience engagement?

Accepted Answer

By employing immersive techniques, fostering audience participation, and erasing the divide between performer and spectator

Answer

By prioritizing elaborate visual elements and spectacles over emotional depth

Answer

By reducing dialogue and relying solely on physical expression

Question 59

Expressionist theatre emphasized emotional expression and subjective experiences. Which technique was central to achieving this focus?

Accepted Answer

Abstraction and distortion

Answer

Realistic portrayal of events

Answer

Traditional theatrical conventions

Question 60

In theatre, which principle is central to realism?

Accepted Answer

Depicting everyday life with minimal artifice

Answer

Using elaborate sets and poetic language

Answer

Exploring supernatural themes and otherworldly realms

Answer

Rejecting traditional theatrical forms

Question 61

How did Expressionism challenge the prevailing theatrical norms of the late 19th and early 20th centuries? Describe the artistic techniques used to achieve this.

Accepted Answer

Employed stylized and non-naturalistic techniques to express inner emotions and subjective realities

Answer

Embraced naturalism and realism to depict daily life

Answer

Adhered to conventional theatrical forms like tragedy and comedy, following classical Greek principles

Answer

Provided escapism and entertainment through light-hearted and comedic performances

Question 62

Which of the following is NOT a widely recognized major tradition in theatre history?

Accepted Answer

Surrealist

Answer

Classical

Answer

Romantic

Answer

Naturalist

Question 63

Who is widely regarded as the 'Father of Modern Theatre'?

Accepted Answer

Stanislavski

Answer

William Shakespeare

Answer

Henrik Ibsen

Answer

Meyerhold

Question 64

Which acting theory emphasizes the importance of 'emotional truth' and 'the given circumstances' in performance?

Accepted Answer

Method Acting

Answer

Brechtian Theatre

Answer

Expressionism

Answer

Absurdism