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. Based on the passages, what can we infer about the relationship between assault and lethal force?

A. An act of lethal force always results from a type of assault.
B. An assault will lead to the use of lethal force by someone.
C. An assault with deadly intent can lead to an individual using lethal force to preserve their well-being.
D. If someone uses self-defense in a conflict, it is considered deadly force; if actions or threats are intended, it is classified as assault.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: From the passages provided, it can be inferred that an assault with deadly intent can lead to an individual using lethal force to defend themselves and preserve their well-being. This suggests a relationship between assault with deadly intent and the potential use of lethal force in self-defense situations. Choice A is incorrect because lethal force is not always a direct result of assault, as it depends on the circumstances. Choice B is incorrect as not all assaults lead to the use of lethal force by someone. Choice D is incorrect as the definition of deadly force and assault are distinct, with deadly force typically being used in self-defense situations where there is an immediate threat of severe harm or death.

3. Which of the following is an example of a secondary source that would be used in a documentary about World War I?

A. an essay by a historian about the lasting effects of the war
B. photographs of military equipment used in the war
C. a recorded interview with a veteran who fought for the US Army
D. letters written by soldiers to their families

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An essay by a historian about the lasting effects of the war is an example of a secondary source as it provides analysis and interpretation of primary sources like official documents, photographs, and letters. It offers a perspective that is based on research and not directly involved in the events, making it a valuable resource for understanding the historical context of World War I. Choice B, photographs of military equipment, is a primary source as it provides direct visual evidence from the time period. Choice C, a recorded interview with a veteran, is also a primary source as it offers firsthand accounts from someone directly involved in the events. Choice D, letters written by soldiers, are primary sources that offer insights into the personal experiences of individuals during the war.

4. Which of the following sentences from the passage includes a fact?

A. With a running time of 98 minutes, the pacing is quick and efficient.'
B. You can see the toll this stalking experience has had on her every twitch of her eye and clench of her jaw.'
C. The close-up shots feel claustrophobic like the perspective is skewed.'
D. This is a tense thrill ride that will not disappoint fans of Joy Taylor or this genre in general.'

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The sentence 'With a running time of 98 minutes, the pacing is quick and efficient' includes a fact, which is the running time of the movie. This statement provides a concrete, verifiable detail from the passage. Choice B describes a subjective observation about the character's behavior, not a fact. Choice C expresses an opinion about the visual effect of the close-up shots, not a factual detail. Choice D offers an opinion about the movie's appeal to fans of a specific genre, rather than presenting a fact from the passage.

5. How much will Raoul expect to pay for his computer use at the library?

A. $9
B. $6
C. $12
D. $15

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Raoul estimates that he will need to use the library computer for approximately an hour and a half. Since each 15-minute period beyond the initial 30 minutes incurs a $3 charge, for a total of three additional 15-minute periods, Raoul will need to pay $9 ($3 x 3 = $9). Therefore, Raoul can expect to pay $9 for his computer use at the library. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the information provided in the extract.