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. What is the central idea of this passage?

A. It introduces certain insects that transition from water to air.
B. It describes how insects adapt to their environment.
C. It discusses the significance of insects in ecosystems.
D. It highlights the duality of insect life.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The central idea of the passage is to highlight the significance of understanding insects in ecosystems, not just focusing on their adaptability or life transitions. Choice A is incorrect as the passage does not introduce specific insects transitioning from water to air. Choice B is incorrect as the main focus is not solely on how insects adapt to their environment, but on their broader role in ecosystems. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not discuss the duality of insect life, but rather their importance in the ecosystem.

3. What is the new word?

A. REVEST
B. REVERT
C. REVIEW
D. REVERSE

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The new word can be formed by following the transformation steps: Remove the P, Replace the first A with the final E, Remove the I, Remove the C, and Remove the A from PREVARICATE, resulting in the word 'REVERT.' Choices A, C, and D do not match the rearrangement of letters provided in the instructions.

4. Why is The Importance of Being Earnest considered one of Wilde's most enduring works?

A. Because it offers a deep and serious critique of society.
B. Because it humorously exposes the flaws of the upper class.
C. Because it captures the essence of Wilde's witty and satirical style.
D. Because it reflects Wilde's deep personal struggles with society.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The play endures because it perfectly captures Wilde's witty and satirical style, making it a timeless critique of society. 'The Importance of Being Earnest' humorously exposes the flaws of the upper class, rather than offering a deep and serious critique of society (Choice A). While Wilde's personal struggles may have influenced his works, 'The Importance of Being Earnest' is more focused on societal critiques through wit and satire, rather than reflecting his personal struggles (Choice D). Although the play does humorously expose the flaws of the upper class, the main reason for its enduring popularity is its embodiment of Wilde's witty and satirical style (Choice B). Therefore, Choice C is the correct answer.

5. Given the style of writing for the passage, which of the following magazines would be the best fit for this article?

A. Scientific Spelunking
B. Family Fun Days
C. Adventures for Men
D. Mud Magazine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The article's style is light-hearted and aimed at families looking for outdoor adventures. It suggests activities suitable for families with children, making Family Fun Days the best fit among the given magazine options. 'Scientific Spelunking' may focus more on the scientific aspects rather than family-friendly fun. 'Adventures for Men' may cater to a male audience rather than families. 'Mud Magazine' seems more focused on mud-related content, which doesn't align with the family-friendly, outdoor adventure theme of the article.