how does wilde use irony to critique the upper class in the play

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS Reading Practice Test

1. How does Wilde use irony to critique the upper class in the play?

A. By portraying the upper class as sincere and honorable.
B. By showing that the upper class is deeply concerned with morality.
C. By exaggerating the trivial concerns and behaviors of the upper class.
D. By highlighting the noble and upright nature of the upper class.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Wilde uses irony by exaggerating the trivial concerns and behaviors of the upper class, revealing their lack of genuine depth and morality. In 'The Importance of Being Earnest,' Wilde satirizes the British aristocracy by highlighting their absurdities and trivialities. The play's characters, like Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, lead double lives, symbolizing the dual nature of their social status. Through witty dialogue, puns, and irony, Wilde exposes the superficiality and hypocrisy of the upper classes. The term 'Bunburying' coined by Wilde exemplifies the characters' deceitful actions to avoid social responsibilities. Additionally, the play ridicules the concept of marriage, portraying it as a societal transaction rather than a romantic bond. For instance, Lady Bracknell's interrogation of Jack about his eligibility as a suitor for Gwendolen underscores the materialistic view of marriage prevalent in the society Wilde critiques. Wilde's humorous yet critical portrayal of the aristocracy in 'The Importance of Being Earnest' makes it a timeless and cherished work.

2. Which of the following statements best summarizes the central purpose of this text?

A. Gulliver details his experiences and interactions with the natives of the new land.
B. Gulliver observes the unique customs and traditions of the society he encounters.
C. Gulliver becomes acquainted with the people and practices of his new surroundings.
D. Gulliver reflects on the cultural differences between his homeland and the new land.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the text describes how Gulliver becomes familiar with the customs and practices of the new society he finds himself in. He interacts with the natives, learns their language, and participates in their shows, indicating his growing understanding and acceptance of the new culture. Choice A is incorrect because the text goes beyond detailing his experiences to focus on his growing familiarity with the society. Choice B is incorrect because Gulliver not only observes but actively engages with the customs. Choice D is incorrect as the focus is on Gulliver's adaptation rather than reflecting on cultural differences.

3. What is the best summary of this article?

A. The assassin who tried to kill President Lincoln and Secretary Seward escaped into the night. After having fired his pistol at the president, he barely eluded authorities and hurried to Seward's residence. There, he stabbed both the secretary and his son, Frederick Seward.
B. A single assassin went on a rampage tonight, starting at Ford's Theater and absconding into the night. He currently remains at large.
C. President Lincoln was shot by an assassin at Ford's Theater; the president is not expected to survive. Secretary Seward and his son were also attacked by an assassin at their home this evening. They remain unconscious, and their chances of survival are questionable. General Grant was scheduled to be at the theater, but changed his plans and was not harmed by the evening's events.
D. General Grant is poised to take over the role of the presidency should President Lincoln die from wounds inflicted upon him at Ford's Theater. Grant was present at a recent Cabinet meeting, where Lincoln expressed hope for the future and spoke kind words about General Lee and the Confederacy.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Choice C is the best summary of the article. It encapsulates the key events that occurred, including President Lincoln being shot at Ford's Theater, the attack on Secretary Seward and his son at their home, and General Grant avoiding harm. It accurately reflects the major developments and outcomes of the tragic events described in the article. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they either focus on specific aspects of the events and omit critical details or introduce irrelevant information not present in the article extract.

4. Which of the statements reflect information that one could reasonably infer based on the author's tone?

A. The author's tone is persuasive and aims to call the audience to action.
B. The author's tone is passionate due to excitement over the subject and personal narrative.
C. The author's tone is informative and exhibits interest in the subject of the study.
D. The author's tone is somber, depicting some anger at the state of insect larvae.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Based on the author's tone in the excerpt, one can infer that the author's tone is informative. The author aims to educate the reader about the unique characteristics of insects, their habitats, and their life cycle. The tone is objective and descriptive, focusing on providing factual information rather than persuading or expressing passion or somberness. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because there is no evident attempt to persuade, show excitement, or express anger in the text. Instead, the author's primary focus is on providing detailed information about the topic.

5. Which of the following best describes the theme of the passage?

A. Patronizing
B. Skeptical
C. Objective
D. Nostalgic

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Objective.' The passage presents a factual account of Clara Barton's life events without showing bias or personal feelings. The text outlines significant milestones in Barton's life chronologically, from her birth to her contributions during and after the Civil War, culminating in her advocacy for the establishment of an American branch of the International Red Cross Organization. The passage does not exhibit a patronizing tone (choice A), as it does not talk down to Barton or belittle her achievements. It is also not skeptical (choice B), as it does not express doubt or disbelief in the information presented. Furthermore, the passage is not nostalgic (choice D), as it does not dwell on sentimental feelings or memories of the past. Therefore, 'Objective' is the most suitable description of the passage's theme.