19th Century Drama: Explore the Evolution of Modern Theatre

Question 1

Which characteristics are most closely associated with melodrama in 19th-century drama?

Accepted Answer

Intense emotions, dramatic events, and clear moral lessons

Answer

Subtle emotions and mundane events

Answer

Complex characters and psychological insights

Answer

Unconventional structure and experimental staging

Question 2

Which of the following is NOT typically associated with Romantic drama?

Accepted Answer

Naturalistic depiction of everyday life

Answer

Focus on emotions and imagination

Answer

Idealization of the past

Answer

Exploration of the supernatural

Question 3

Which of the following themes was NOT commonly explored in 19th-century drama?

Accepted Answer

Advancements in technology

Answer

Social inequality

Answer

Political corruption

Answer

The role of women in society

Question 4

Which of Henrik Ibsen's plays is often regarded as a masterpiece of social realism?

Accepted Answer

A Doll's House

Answer

Hedda Gabler

Answer

Peer Gynt

Answer

The Master Builder

Question 5

Who is the author of the renowned comedic play, "The Importance of Being Earnest"?

Accepted Answer

Oscar Wilde

Answer

George Bernard Shaw

Answer

Henrik Ibsen

Answer

Anton Chekhov

Question 6

Which of the following elements is NOT a distinctive feature of Naturalist drama?

Accepted Answer

Emphasis on heightened emotions and individual psychology

Answer

Objective observation of human behavior

Answer

Detailed portrayal of everyday life and working-class characters

Answer

Focus on scientific and empirical methods

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT a defining characteristic of Romantic drama?

Accepted Answer

Use of realistic, everyday language

Answer

Emphasis on intense emotions and imagination

Answer

Idealization and celebration of nature

Answer

Exploration of individualistic perspectives

Question 8

Which play by Henrik Ibsen explores and critiques the moral values and societal norms of the bourgeoisie?

Accepted Answer

A Doll's House

Answer

Hedda Gabler

Answer

The Wild Duck

Answer

Rosmersholm

Question 9

Which playwright is NOT considered a significant figure of 19th-century drama?

Accepted Answer

David Mamet

Answer

Henrik Ibsen

Answer

August Strindberg

Answer

Oscar Wilde

Question 10

Of Oscar Wilde's works, which play is a witty social commentary on Victorian society?

Accepted Answer

The Importance of Being Earnest

Answer

The Picture of Dorian Gray

Answer

Lady Windermere's Fan

Answer

Salome

Question 11

Can realism in drama ever be considered a completely objective representation of reality?

Accepted Answer

Realism is inherently subjective because it is impossible to completely remove the biases and interpretations of those involved.

Answer

Realism presents an objective depiction of reality by focusing on external details and everyday events.

Answer

Realism can be objective if the playwright, director, and actors all share the same goal.

Answer

Realism achieves objectivity only when based on scientific observation.

Question 12

How did international theatrical influences inspire 19th-century playwrights?

Accepted Answer

Cross-Cultural Inspiration

Answer

Artistic Imitation

Answer

National Isolation

Answer

Limited Global Connections

Question 13

At the heart of Henrik Ibsen's "A Doll's House" lies the theme of:

Accepted Answer

The oppression of women in traditional society

Answer

The transformative power of love

Answer

The importance of fulfilling one's social responsibilities

Answer

The clash between idealism and pragmatism

Question 14

Which of the following is NOT a defining characteristic of Victorian melodrama?

Accepted Answer

Subtlety and restraint

Answer

Spectacular stage effects and sensationalism

Answer

Heightened emotional displays

Answer

Clear-cut moral conflicts

Question 15

Eugène Scribe's theatrical innovations primarily focused on:

Accepted Answer

Creating well-constructed plays with intricate plots and distinct character motivations

Answer

Implementing groundbreaking staging techniques

Answer

Exploring the depths of psychological realism

Question 16

Which dramatic movement prioritized depicting the lives of ordinary individuals and everyday situations?

Accepted Answer

Naturalism

Answer

Epic Theater

Answer

Expressionism

Answer

Symbolism

Question 17

Which playwright is noted for their use of symbolism and exploration of the subconscious?

Accepted Answer

Maurice Maeterlinck

Answer

Oscar Wilde

Answer

Eugene O'Neill

Answer

Henrik Ibsen

Question 18

What is the primary purpose of a prologue in a play?

Accepted Answer

To provide upfront information about the setting, characters, or backstory before the main plot unfolds.

Answer

To introduce the central conflict and establish the play's tone.

Answer

To offer a resolution to the main plot and provide insights into its themes.

Question 19

Which playwright is considered a representative of the Romantic movement in 19th century drama, known for their focus on emotion, imagination, and individualism?

Accepted Answer

Percy Bysshe Shelley

Answer

Arthur Wing Pinero

Answer

Tom Robertson

Answer

Henrik Ibsen

Question 20

Identify the play by Henrik Ibsen that is renowned for its exploration of psychological realism and the complexities of human relationships.

Accepted Answer

Hedda Gabler

Answer

Peer Gynt

Answer

Brand

Answer

When We Dead Awaken

Question 21

Which social issue was frequently addressed and critiqued in the plays of Victorian realists, reflecting the social and economic changes of the time?

Accepted Answer

Poverty and social inequality

Answer

Mythology and folklore

Answer

Historical events

Answer

The supernatural and the occult

Question 22

Which technique is commonly employed in 19th century melodramas to evoke heightened emotional responses from the audience?

Accepted Answer

Exaggerated gestures and language

Answer

Brechtian alienation techniques

Answer

Minimalist staging and subtle characterization

Answer

Surrealistic imagery

Question 23

Which major intellectual and scientific movement had a profound influence on the development of naturalist drama in the late 19th century, emphasizing the role of environment and heredity?

Accepted Answer

Darwin's theory of evolution

Answer

The Romantic movement

Answer

Symbolism

Answer

Expressionism

Question 24

In the context of a play, what is a key characteristic of well-crafted exposition?

Accepted Answer

Provides essential information about characters, setting, and backstory without overwhelming the audience

Answer

Delivered in a lengthy monologue at the beginning of the play

Question 25

What is a primary purpose of stage directions within a play?

Accepted Answer

Provide guidance for actors' movements, gestures, and tone of voice

Answer

Comment on the characters' motivations and backstories

Answer

Reveal the playwright's personal opinions about the play's themes

Question 26

Which of the following is a common distinguishing feature of closet dramas?

Accepted Answer

Written primarily to be read rather than performed

Answer

Use of experimental and avant-garde techniques

Answer

Focus on historical or mythological themes

Answer

Feature elaborate stage sets and special effects