why is the importance of being earnest considered one of wildes most enduring works

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS Reading Practice Test

1. 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.

2. Which of the following represents an opinion statement on the part of the author?

A. The problem with having a larger Bermuda Triangle is that it increases the odds of accidents.
B. The area known as the Bermuda Triangle has become such a part of popular culture that it can be difficult to sort through the myth and locate the truth.
C. The increase in ships from East Asia no doubt contributes to an increase in accidents.
D. Most consider the Triangle to stretch from Miami to Puerto Rico and include the island of Bermuda.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Choice C, 'The increase in ships from East Asia no doubt contributes to an increase in accidents,' represents an opinion statement made by the author. This statement reflects the author's belief or judgment about the impact of increased ships from East Asia on the occurrence of accidents in the Bermuda Triangle. The other choices, A, B, and D, provide factual information or general statements without expressing a personal opinion. Choice A discusses a potential consequence of a larger Bermuda Triangle, choice B highlights the cultural significance and difficulty in discerning truth about the Bermuda Triangle, and choice D describes the commonly accepted geographical boundaries of the Bermuda Triangle. Therefore, choice C is the correct answer as it represents an opinion statement on the part of the author.

3. According to the extract, which of the following statements most closely correlates with the definition of the term 'working man'?

A. A working man is someone who is well versed in the workings of the soul.
B. A working man is probably not involved in social activities due to the high physical demand of work.
C. A working man is someone who earns wages in a traditional sense, often associated with the middle class.
D. The working man historically transitions from the field to the factory and now to the screen.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: According to the extract, the term 'working man' refers to individuals who are actively employed and earn wages in a traditional sense. Charles Dickens emphasizes the importance of the working man having a share in the management of institutions designed for their benefit. This aligns with choice C, making it the correct answer. Choice A is incorrect as the extract does not mention anything about being well versed in the workings of the soul. Choice B is incorrect because the extract does not suggest that working men are not involved in social activities due to the physical demands of their work. Choice D is also incorrect as the extract does not focus on the historical transitions of the working man.

4. Which of the following best summarizes the central theme of Wilde's play?

A. The absurdity of the British aristocracy and its social conventions.
B. The importance of being sincere and honest in personal relationships.
C. The dual nature of social standing and the conflicts it creates.
D. The challenges of maintaining personal integrity in a hypocritical society.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'The absurdity of the British aristocracy and its social conventions.' The central theme of Wilde's play, as revealed through satire, is the critique of the absurdities and trivialities of the British aristocracy. Wilde uses clever dialogue, puns, and irony to expose the superficiality and hypocrisy of the upper classes. While sincerity and honesty in personal relationships are explored in the play, they are not the central theme. Choice C, the dual nature of social standing and resulting conflicts, is a partial theme but not the central one. Choice D, the challenges of maintaining personal integrity in a hypocritical society, touches on a theme present in the play, but it is not as central as the critique of the British aristocracy's absurdities and social conventions.

5. What most likely describes the relationship between the author and Alan?

A. competitive
B. formal
C. friendly
D. caring

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most likely description of the relationship between the author and Alan is friendly. The author's message to Alan is filled with warmth, concern, and offers of help, indicating a positive and supportive tone. The use of phrases like 'I just wanted to drop you a quick note' and 'Let me know if you want any special treats' reflect a friendly and amicable relationship. Choices A, B, and D are not as suitable as competitive, formal, or caring relationships do not align as strongly with the friendly and supportive nature of the interaction described in the text.