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 law firms would provide the necessary experience to pursue her claim and ensure the lowest overall cost?

A. Smith and Jones
B. Martin and Sons
C. Williams Attorneys
D. Thorn and Thomas

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Smith and Jones. In the provided extract, it mentions that Shia wanted to pursue a claim, and in the text, Smith and Jones specialize in worker's compensation legal issues. Furthermore, they offer a no-fee-unless-you-win service, ensuring the lowest cost for the employee. Choice B, Martin and Sons, Choice C, Williams Attorneys, and Choice D, Thorn and Thomas, are incorrect as they are not mentioned in the extract and do not offer the specific services required for the worker's compensation claim.

3. Which of the following statements represents an exaggerated claim in support of the argument presented in this passage?

A. In the United States, the foreign language requirement for high school graduation varies depending on the state.
B. Studying a foreign language is crucial for success in the global economy.
C. High school graduates with foreign language credits have a higher college acceptance rate.
D. Students who did not study a foreign language are completely unable to secure any job.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it is an exaggerated claim to state that students who did not study a foreign language are completely unable to secure any job. While proficiency in a foreign language may enhance job prospects, it is unrealistic to suggest that not studying one would render someone unemployable. Choice A provides a factual statement about the variation in foreign language requirements, so it cannot be considered an exaggeration. Choices B and C highlight the increasing importance of foreign language skills and the benefits of having them, which are supported by trends and studies. These choices may be debatable, but they are not exaggerated claims.

4. What is the definition of the word 'haunt' in the following passage? 'From that time forward, Mr. Utterson began to haunt the door in the by street of shops.'

A. To levitate
B. To constantly visit
C. To terrorize
D. To daunt

Correct answer: B

Rationale: 'Haunt' in this context means to visit a place frequently or persistently, which aligns with Mr. Utterson's actions of regularly going to the door in the by street of shops. The other choices are incorrect because 'levitate' means to rise or float in the air, 'terrorize' means to cause extreme fear, and 'daunt' means to make someone feel intimidated or apprehensive, none of which accurately reflect the meaning of 'haunt' in this context.

5. Sarah is hosting a brunch for a baby shower and knows that several of the guests are strict vegans. She wants to make sure she prepares certain foods correctly to ensure all her guests have something to eat. In particular, she is looking for recipes for banana bread and blueberry muffins. Which chapter of the cookbook should she consult?

A. Chapter I
B. Chapter II
C. Chapter IV
D. Chapter V

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Chapter II typically focuses on baking and sweet treats, which would likely include recipes for banana bread and blueberry muffins. Sarah should consult this chapter for vegan-friendly versions of these recipes that will cater to her strict vegan guests. Choice A, Chapter I, primarily covers yeast breads, not the specific recipes Sarah is looking for. Choice C, Chapter IV, focuses on elegant, easy entrees, which are not relevant to the sweet treats Sarah wants. Choice D, Chapter V, covers delicious desserts and drinks, but it does not specifically mention the items Sarah is interested in, making it less likely to contain the recipes she needs.