Post-1900 Drama: Explore 20th and 21st Century Theatre

Question 1

How did the emergence of realism and naturalism influence the evolution of 20th-century drama?

Accepted Answer

By focusing on depicting everyday life and language

Answer

By advocating for elaborate stage designs and costumes

Answer

By including elements of fantasy and the supernatural

Answer

By encouraging actors to perform in an exaggerated manner

Question 2

Which characteristic is NOT associated with absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Linear narrative and logical character development

Answer

Illogicality and irrationality

Answer

Symbolism and allegory

Answer

Existential themes

Question 3

Which characteristic is central to absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Exploration of existential themes

Answer

Emphasis on ordinary, everyday conversations

Answer

Strict adherence to straightforward plotlines

Question 4

Which feature is a defining characteristic of Absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Focus on the irrational and illogical

Answer

Emphasis on ordinary language and realism

Answer

Celebration of human resilience in the face of hardship

Answer

Exploration of social and political issues

Question 5

Which defining characteristic is associated with absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Exploration of the absence of inherent meaning in the universe

Answer

Emphasis on logical dialogue and actions

Answer

Clear and straightforward narrative structure

Question 6

Which characteristic is NOT associated with Absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Emphasis on psychological realism

Answer

Rejection of conventional plot structures

Answer

Exploration of the irrational and illogical

Question 7

Which defining characteristic is central to absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Presenting illogical situations and unconventional language

Answer

Logical and sequential plotlines

Answer

Emphasizing the rational and logical nature of human existence

Question 8

What is a defining feature of absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

A rejection of traditional drama rules and an acceptance of the illogical

Answer

A focus on depicting daily life realistically

Answer

A belief in human goodness and the power of logic

Question 9

In Samuel Beckett's 'Waiting for Godot', Vladimir and Estragon's repeated attempts to pass the time symbolize:

Accepted Answer

The futility of seeking meaning in a meaningless world.

Answer

The characters' optimism despite their situation.

Answer

The characters' resilience in the face of hardship.

Answer

The characters' hope for a better future.

Question 10

Which of the following is a defining feature of absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Themes that delve into the meaninglessness or futility of existence

Answer

Characters who act in a rational and logical way

Answer

Dialogue that is natural and conversational

Answer

Events that unfold in a realistic and linear timeline

Question 11

What is a defining characteristic of absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Exploration of existential themes

Answer

Focus on logical and rational elements

Answer

Emphasis on traditional dramatic structure

Question 12

Which characteristic is NOT associated with Absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Emphasis on realism and naturalism

Answer

Rejection of traditional dramatic form and structure

Answer

Exploration of existential themes, such as the meaninglessness of life

Answer

Use of symbolism and allegory to convey complex ideas

Question 13

Which defining characteristic is unique to absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Rejection of logical structure and plot

Answer

Use of everyday language and commonplace situations

Answer

Characters wrestling with religious themes

Question 14

Which characteristic is a hallmark of absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Illogical dialogue and seemingly purposeless actions

Answer

Elaborate stagecraft and heightened language

Answer

Realistic and logical presentation of characters and events

Answer

Exploration of social and political issues

Question 15

Which characteristic is central to Samuel Beckett's 'Waiting for Godot' (1953) being an absurdist play?

Accepted Answer

Exploration of the meaninglessness of existence

Answer

Realistic portrayal of daily life

Answer

Use of traditional dramatic structures

Answer

Focus on psychological realism

Question 16

Which characteristic is NOT typically associated with realist drama?

Accepted Answer

Integration of supernatural elements

Answer

Accurate portrayal of everyday life

Answer

Emphasis on the inner lives of characters

Answer

Exploration of social and economic issues

Question 17

Which play is considered a seminal work of the absurdist movement in drama?

Accepted Answer

Waiting for Godot

Answer

Death of a Salesman

Answer

A Doll's House

Answer

Look Back in Anger

Question 18

In J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls', what is the primary purpose of the inspector's final speech?

Accepted Answer

To expose the moral failings of the Birling family

Answer

To reveal his true identity

Answer

To provide a supernatural resolution to the play

Answer

To introduce a new character

Question 19

Which central theme is explored in Samuel Beckett's 'Waiting for Godot'?

Accepted Answer

The futility and absurdity of human existence

Answer

The power of love and redemption

Answer

The importance of family and community

Answer

The dangers of ambition and greed

Question 20

Which theatrical technique does Caryl Churchill employ in 'Cloud 9' to explore gender roles?

Accepted Answer

Cross-dressing and role-reversal

Answer

Monologues and soliloquies

Answer

Brechtian alienation and distancing

Answer

Naturalistic dialogue and characterization

Question 21

Who authored the absurdist play 'Waiting for Godot'?

Accepted Answer

Samuel Beckett

Answer

Harold Pinter

Answer

Tom Stoppard

Answer

Jean-Paul Sartre

Question 22

In which play by Tennessee Williams are themes of isolation and loneliness central?

Accepted Answer

The Glass Menagerie

Answer

A Streetcar Named Desire

Answer

Cat on a Hot Tin Roof

Answer

Death of a Salesman

Question 23

How does social change influence the evolution of dramatic forms in the 20th century?

Accepted Answer

It fosters the emergence of more experimental and unconventional plays

Answer

It leads to a decline in traditional theatrical genres

Answer

It has a negligible impact on dramatic forms

Answer

It encourages the creation of plays that idealize the past

Question 24

Which central theme is explored in Samuel Beckett's 'Endgame'?

Accepted Answer

The meaninglessness of existence

Answer

The inevitability of mortality

Answer

The power of love

Answer

The significance of memory

Question 25

Which feature is characteristic of absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Exploration of the irrational and nonsensical

Answer

Reliance on logical reasoning

Answer

Use of symbolism and allegory to convey clear messages

Answer

Emphasis on character development and psychological realism

Question 26

Which playwright is NOT typically associated with the Theatre of the Absurd?

Accepted Answer

Arthur Miller

Answer

Samuel Beckett

Answer

Eugene Ionesco

Answer

Harold Pinter

Question 27

In Samuel Beckett's play, which characters engage in meaningless conversation while waiting for someone who never arrives?

Accepted Answer

Vladimir and Estragon

Answer

Pozzo and Lucky

Answer

Didi and Gogo

Answer

Hamm and Clov

Question 28

Which element is characteristic of naturalistic drama?

Accepted Answer

Use of colloquial language

Answer

Exploration of symbolic imagery

Answer

Emphasis on dreamlike states

Answer

Written in verse form

Question 29

In which play does a rhinoceros epidemic symbolize the rise of fascism?

Accepted Answer

Rhinoceros

Answer

Waiting for Godot

Answer

The Cherry Orchard

Answer

A Doll's House

Question 30

Which playwright's work often addresses issues of female identity and the constraints faced by women?

Accepted Answer

Caryl Churchill

Answer

Henrik Ibsen

Answer

Harold Pinter

Answer

Oscar Wilde

Question 31

Which of the following is NOT a major theme explored in post-1900 drama?

Accepted Answer

The power of destiny

Answer

Existentialism

Answer

Political oppression

Answer

The search for meaning

Question 32

Which playwright is considered a pioneer of the influential Royal Court Theatre movement?

Accepted Answer

John Osborne

Answer

Samuel Beckett

Answer

Caryl Churchill

Answer

Harold Pinter

Question 33

In John Osborne's play, which young man defies societal expectations by pursuing his artistic dreams?

Accepted Answer

Jimmy Porter

Answer

Torvald Helmer

Answer

Konstantin Treplev

Answer

Willy Loman

Question 34

Which of the following is a key characteristic of realism in drama?

Accepted Answer

Focus on slice-of-life scenarios and ordinary people

Answer

Emphasis on psychological complexity

Answer

Use of non-naturalistic language

Answer

Exploration of class conflict

Question 35

Which of the following plays by Samuel Beckett is considered an example of absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Waiting for Godot

Answer

The Crucible

Answer

A Doll's House

Answer

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead

Question 36

How does Bertolt Brecht's concept of 'alienation effect' impact his plays?

Accepted Answer

It creates a deliberate distance between the audience and the characters.

Answer

It strengthens the emotional connection between the audience and the characters.

Answer

It enhances the sense of realism in the play.

Answer

It reduces the importance of the political message of the play.

Question 37

Which characteristic is central to naturalism in drama?

Accepted Answer

Emphasis on the influence of environment and heredity on human behavior

Answer

Belief in the power of human reason

Answer

Use of heightened language and symbolism

Answer

Exploration of supernatural elements

Question 38

How does the concept of 'metatheatrical' storytelling impact the audience's engagement with post-1900 drama?

Accepted Answer

It challenges the audience's perception of reality and representation.

Answer

It allows the audience to become more emotionally invested in the story.

Answer

It provides a cathartic experience for the audience.

Answer

It makes the play easier to follow and understand.

Question 39

Which of the following is a defining characteristic of realism in post-1900 drama?

Accepted Answer

Accurate depiction of everyday life and ordinary characters

Answer

Focuses on extraordinary events and larger-than-life characters

Answer

Relies heavily on symbolism and allegory

Answer

Prioritizes psychological realism over external action

Question 40

Which absurdist play by Samuel Beckett revolves around two characters endlessly waiting for a mysterious figure?

Accepted Answer

Waiting for Godot

Answer

Endgame

Answer

Happy Days

Answer

Krapp's Last Tape

Question 41

How does Oscar Wilde's play 'The Importance of Being Earnest' satirize the Victorian era's social norms?

Accepted Answer

By portraying the aristocracy as superficial and hypocritical

Answer

By promoting a message of social equality and justice

Answer

By celebrating traditional values and moral standards

Answer

By depicting the challenges faced by the working class

Question 42

Which dramatic technique, commonly employed in absurdist plays, disrupts conventional storytelling and creates a sense of alienation?

Accepted Answer

Non-linear narrative structure

Answer

Linear narrative structure

Answer

Naturalistic dialogue

Answer

Detailed character development

Question 43

How does Henrik Ibsen's play 'A Doll's House' critique the societal expectations placed on women?

Accepted Answer

By advocating for women's independence and self-determination

Answer

By portraying a woman who conforms to traditional gender roles

Answer

By reinforcing the idea that women are inherently inferior to men

Answer

By depicting the challenges faced by working women

Question 44

How does Harold Pinter's use of pauses and silences contribute to the overall impact of his plays?

Accepted Answer

They create a sense of tension and anticipation

Answer

They provide comic relief and break the monotony of dialogue

Answer

They symbolize the passage of time and shifts in relationships

Answer

They serve no significant purpose and are merely stylistic quirks

Question 45

Which of the following is NOT considered a defining characteristic of post-1900 British drama?

Accepted Answer

A focus on traditional theatrical forms and themes

Answer

An emphasis on socio-political issues

Answer

A diversity of styles and perspectives

Answer

A spirit of experimentation and innovation

Question 46

How does Tom Stoppard's play 'Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead' challenge the traditional interpretation of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet'?

Accepted Answer

By presenting the events from the perspective of minor characters

Answer

By altering the plot and introducing new characters

Answer

By providing a modern and updated version of the story

Answer

By remaining faithful to the original text and characters

Question 47

Which characteristic is NOT associated with realism in drama?

Accepted Answer

Symbolic characters representing abstract ideas

Answer

Focus on everyday life

Answer

Accurate representation of speech patterns

Answer

Social commentary

Question 48

Identify the Samuel Beckett play that exemplifies absurdist theatre:

Accepted Answer

Waiting for Godot

Answer

A Doll's House

Answer

Hedda Gabler

Answer

The Cherry Orchard

Question 49

What central theme is explored in Harold Pinter's 'The Caretaker'?

Accepted Answer

The dynamics of power within relationships

Answer

The search for identity and personal fulfillment

Answer

The struggles faced by the working class

Answer

The nature of reality and the boundaries of perception

Question 50

Which technique is commonly employed in naturalistic drama?

Accepted Answer

Precise and detailed descriptions of the setting

Answer

Stylized and poetic dialogue

Answer

Extensive use of symbolism and metaphorical language

Answer

Brechtian alienation techniques

Question 51

Naturalism in drama is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Deterministic view of human behavior, shaped by heredity and environment

Answer

Strong focus on heightened emotions and poetic language

Answer

Belief in the power of reason and human progress

Answer

Idealized portrayal of characters as heroic or virtuous

Question 52

Which of the following playwrights is associated with the Theatre of the Absurd?

Accepted Answer

Harold Pinter

Answer

Tennessee Williams

Answer

Arthur Miller

Answer

George Bernard Shaw

Question 53

In Samuel Beckett's 'Waiting for Godot', what does the titular character symbolize?

Accepted Answer

The elusive nature of hope, the futility of human existence, and the absurdity of waiting

Answer

The promise of salvation and redemption

Answer

The power of fate and the inevitability of death

Answer

The search for meaning and purpose in a meaningless world

Question 54

The main characteristic of experimental drama is:

Accepted Answer

Exploration of innovative theatrical techniques and unconventional approaches

Answer

Reliance on traditional forms and conventions

Answer

Focus on historical events and accurate representation of the past

Answer

Realistic portrayal of everyday life and familiar experiences

Question 55

Which of the following is a key aspect of Bertolt Brecht's 'Epic Theatre'?

Accepted Answer

The use of alienation effects to distance the audience from the action

Answer

The promotion of audience passivity and emotional detachment

Answer

The emphasis on emotional catharsis and audience identification with characters

Answer

The celebration of individual heroism and the power of individual action

Question 56

Which literary movement is NOT associated with post-1900 drama?

Accepted Answer

Romanticism

Answer

Realism

Answer

Naturalism

Answer

Absurdism

Question 57

Which defining characteristic is associated with absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Exploration of existential themes and the search for meaning

Answer

Emphasis on realistic dialogue and settings

Answer

Adherence to traditional dramatic structures and character development

Answer

Use of humor to convey the absurdity of life

Question 58

Which characteristic is a defining feature of absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Overwhelming sense of futility and meaninglessness

Answer

Emphasis on the ordinary and commonplace

Answer

Extensive cast and intricate plot

Question 59

What is a key feature of absurdist drama?

Accepted Answer

Breaking traditional rules of storytelling, like cause and effect

Answer

Realistic settings and characters

Answer

Focusing mainly on social and political problems

Answer

Using detailed language and symbolic images

Question 60

Which of the following is NOT a key characteristic of Realism in drama?

Accepted Answer

Heightened or symbolic language

Answer

Accurate portrayal of everyday life

Answer

Exploration of social issues

Answer

Meticulous stage directions

Question 61

Which of the following plays exemplifies Naturalism in drama?

Accepted Answer

Desire Under the Elms

Answer

Waiting for Godot

Answer

A Doll's House

Answer

The Seagull

Question 62

In Samuel Beckett's 'Waiting for Godot', what central theme is explored?

Accepted Answer

The futility and absurdity of human existence

Answer

The resilience of the human spirit

Answer

The transformative power of love

Answer

The corrosive effects of societal expectations

Question 63

Which of the following is not a common theme explored in post-1900 drama?

Accepted Answer

The ultimate triumph of good over evil

Answer

Alienation and isolation

Answer

The search for purpose and meaning

Answer

The irrational and the subconscious

Question 64

Which playwright is known for their innovative and experimental approach to drama?

Accepted Answer

Harold Pinter

Answer

Henrik Ibsen

Answer

Tennessee Williams

Answer

George Bernard Shaw