what role does humor play in wildes critique of the aristocracy

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS Reading Practice Test

1. What role does humor play in Wilde's critique of the aristocracy?

A. To soften the harshness of the critique and make it more palatable.
B. To make the critique more pointed and direct.
C. To critique the aristocracy without alienating the audience.
D. To entertain the audience with humor, while delivering a serious message.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In Wilde's critique of the aristocracy, humor serves the purpose of critiquing without alienating the audience. By infusing humor into his work, Wilde can effectively highlight the flaws and absurdities of the upper classes while keeping the audience engaged and receptive. Option A is incorrect because the humor does not aim to soften the critique but rather to enhance its impact. Option B is incorrect as the humor in Wilde's work is not meant to make the critique more pointed and direct but rather more approachable. Option D is incorrect because while entertaining the audience, the primary function of humor in Wilde's critique is to provide a platform for social commentary without losing the audience's interest.

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. What is a typical characteristic of male cicadas?

A. They have short antennae and wide-set eyes.
B. They respond with a clicking sound when ready to mate.
C. They make strident, high buzzing sounds by vibrating two membranes on their abdomen.
D. They deposit eggs into the bark after mating.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Male cicadas are known for making strident, high buzzing sounds by vibrating two membranes on their abdomen, reaching up to 80 to 100 decibels, similar to the roar of a loud engine. This behavior is distinct to male cicadas and serves as a way to attract females for mating. Choice A is incorrect because it describes physical characteristics of cicadas, not behavior. Choice B is incorrect as it describes the behavior of female cicadas, not males. Choice D is incorrect as it pertains to the behavior of female cicadas after mating, not males.

4. Which of the following statements could NOT provide support for BOTH arguments?

A. A number of local school districts have recently implemented dress codes.
B. School administrators have been in talks with parents over the issue of uniforms.
C. Students have reported that school uniforms are costly and typically ill-fitting.
D. Several groups of students have been organized to discuss uniform dress codes.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the statement about the cost and fit of uniforms could only support the argument against uniforms, not both arguments. It aligns more with Vivian Harris's stance against uniforms, emphasizing the importance of clothing as a form of self-expression. Choices A, B, and D are more neutral statements that could provide support for both arguments by indicating actions being taken or discussions being held regarding uniforms without leaning towards a specific stance.

5. The author of the passage notes several distinctions between Tennyson and Malory. Which of the following is not identified as a difference between the two authors?

A. Malory wrote in prose, while Tennyson wrote in 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 correct answer is D. The passage doesn't specifically mention the characters Gareth, Tristan, and Isolde as being exclusive to Malory. However, it does highlight that Malory focused on Arthurian legends while Tennyson also wrote about the same characters. Choice A is incorrect because Malory wrote in prose, while Tennyson wrote in poetry, as stated in the passage. Choice B is incorrect as Malory wrote during the Medieval era, while Tennyson wrote during the Victorian era, according to the passage. Choice C is incorrect because Malory was more focused on heroism and morality, while Tennyson was more focused on nature and elegy, as mentioned in the extract.