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. The style of this passage is most like that found in a(n)

A. tourist guidebook
B. health textbook
C. encyclopedia
D. friendly letter

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The style of the given passage is most similar to that found in a health textbook. The author presents facts and details in a structured bulleted list format, focusing on providing tips and information about eating calcium-rich foods. This style is commonly used in educational materials related to health and nutrition, making choice B the most appropriate among the options provided. Choice A, a tourist guidebook, is incorrect as the passage does not aim to guide or provide information about touristic locations. Choice C, an encyclopedia, is also incorrect as an encyclopedia typically provides comprehensive and in-depth information on various topics, which is not reflected in the passage. Choice D, a friendly letter, is incorrect as the passage does not contain personal or conversational elements that are characteristic of a friendly letter.

3. Which of the following is not identified as a difference between the two authors?

A. Malory wrote prose, while Tennyson wrote poetry.
B. Malory wrote during the medieval era, while Tennyson wrote during the Victorian era.
C. Malory was more focused on heroism and morality, while Tennyson was more focused on nature and elegy.
D. Malory wrote stories about Gareth, Tristan, and Isolde, while Tennyson focused only on Arthur, Lancelot, and Guinevere.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage explicitly mentions that Malory included chapters on knights such as Lancelot and Gareth, and he discussed the relationships between Tristan and Isolde, and Lancelot and Guinevere. This shows that Malory did focus on a wider range of characters beyond just Arthur, Lancelot, and Guinevere. Therefore, the difference mentioned in option D is not accurate as it is identified in the passage that Malory did write stories about Gareth, Tristan, and Isolde. Choices A, B, and C are all correctly identified as differences between the two authors based on the passage provided.

4. Which of the following statements represents an EXAGGERATED claim in support of the argument presented in the passage?

A. In the United States, the foreign language requirement for high school graduation is decided at the state level.
B. Studying a foreign language has become increasingly important for the global economy.
C. High school graduates with foreign language credits have been shown to have an increased college acceptance rate.
D. Students who did not study a foreign language often find themselves unable to obtain a job at all.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: While it is true that studying a foreign language can enhance one's job prospects and competitiveness in the job market, claiming that students who did not study a foreign language often find themselves unable to obtain a job at all is an exaggerated statement. Many factors contribute to employability, and while language skills can be advantageous, they are not the sole determining factor in securing employment.

5. What is the tone of the passage?

A. Witty
B. Incredulous
C. Aggressive
D. Tense

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Witty.' The tone of the passage is light-hearted and humorous, characterized by amusing details like the eccentric birthday party with zebras, monster trucks, and a limited buffet of boiled asparagus and pickled carrots. The mention of Dr. Creekstone planning an even bigger party with more zebras adds to the whimsical and humorous tone. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as there is no indication of disbelief, hostility, or anxiety in the passage; instead, it conveys a sense of fun and amusement.