how does wilde portray the institution of marriage in the importance of being earnest

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS Reading Practice Test

1. How does Wilde portray the institution of marriage in The Importance of Being Earnest?

A. As a romantic union between two individuals.
B. As a social contract designed for economic and social gain.
C. As a trivial and superficial agreement.
D. As a necessary evil in a structured society.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In The Importance of Being Earnest, Wilde portrays marriage as a social contract rather than a romantic union. The play satirizes the transactional nature of marriage in the society Wilde critiques. Characters like Lady Bracknell's interrogation of Jack highlight how marriage is viewed as a means for economic and social gain rather than genuine affection, emphasizing the societal norms of the time. Choice A is incorrect because Wilde's portrayal goes beyond a simple romantic view of marriage. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies Wilde's critique of marriage and societal norms. Choice D is incorrect as it doesn't capture the nuanced satire Wilde employs in dissecting the institution of marriage.

2. Which of the following words could most logically replace the underlined word without altering the intent of the sentence?

A. Shouted
B. Expressed
C. Persuaded
D. Whispered

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the context provided, the word 'propagated' indicates that Xavier conveyed or expressed his belief to his friends. 'Expressed' is the most suitable synonym here as it aligns with the idea of communicating a belief clearly. The other options, 'shouted,' 'persuaded,' and 'whispered,' do not capture the essence of spreading or communicating an idea, making them incorrect choices.

3. Which of the following sentences indicates the end of a sequence?

A. Our ultimate objective was to find a quality coat at an affordable price.
B. We chose this particular restaurant because of its outdoor seating.
C. Finally, we were able to settle in to enjoy the movie.
D. Initially, it seemed unlikely that we’d be able to keep the puppy.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The sentence 'Finally, we were able to settle in to enjoy the movie.' indicates the completion or conclusion of a sequence of events. The word 'finally' signals that something has been achieved or reached at the end of a series of actions or events. Choices A, B, and D do not indicate the end of a sequence but rather express different points within a series of events or actions.

4. Which of the following words from the sentence above has a negative connotation?

A. Contained
B. Shocked
C. Complimentary
D. Reportedly

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The word 'shocked' has a negative connotation as it implies a strong feeling of surprise or dismay. In the context of the provided extract, the word 'shocked' would be fitting to describe the reaction of individuals witnessing the sudden outbreak of violence during the skirmish at Lexington and Concord. The other choices do not carry a negative connotation in this context: 'Contained' is neutral, 'Complimentary' is positive, and 'Reportedly' is neutral.

5. What is the topic excerpt?

A. An interesting birthday party
B. A disappointing buffet menu
C. Dr. Creekstone's eccentricities
D. The lack of adequate lighting at the estate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, 'An interesting birthday party.' The passage describes Dr. Oliver Creekstone's remarkable 90th birthday party at his countryside estate, featuring unusual elements like zebras, monster trucks, and a bagpipe player. The guests were surprised by the buffet of boiled asparagus and pickled carrots, and the evening ended with a spectacular fireworks display. Choice B, 'A disappointing buffet menu,' is incorrect as the buffet is just one aspect of the overall event. Choice C, 'Dr. Creekstone's eccentricities,' while partially relevant, does not capture the main focus of the passage. Choice D, 'The lack of adequate lighting at the estate,' is unrelated to the topic of the excerpt.