English Language History Quiz

The first period of English language development, dating from 476 to 1066 AD. It was marked by the dominance of the Anglo-Saxons, who invaded England and established their language and culture.

The second period of English language development, spanning from 1066 to 1485 AD. It was influenced by the Norman conquest of England, leading to the blending of French and Anglo-Saxon languages.

The third and final period of English language development, stretching from 1485 to 1670 AD. Marked by the rise of the printing press and a more standardized language.

The first English epic poem, written around 1000 AD. It tells the tale of a heroic warrior named Beowulf who battles monsters and saves a kingdom.

A year-by-year account of life in England, created between 800 and 1100 AD. It provides valuable insights into the history and culture of the Anglo-Saxons.

A major English census, conducted in 1085 AD by William the Conqueror. It recorded the names and holdings of people in England, providing a snapshot of the population at that time.

A document containing the fundamental rights and liberties of the English people, signed by King John in 1215 AD. It established the principle of limited government and influenced the development of democratic systems.

The inventor of the printing press in 1436 AD. This groundbreaking invention revolutionized the production of books and contributed to the spread of literacy and knowledge.

A period in English history marked by significant changes in language, culture, and the rise of the British Empire, starting with the end of the Wars of the Roses (1485) and extending to 1670.

This period saw widespread changes in English vowel sounds, transitioning them from Norman French pronunciations to modern English.

A literary genre designed for performance, telling a story through spoken dialogue and action between characters.

A concise narrative typically under 6,000 words, focusing on a few characters and a central theme, with a structured plot, character development, and setting.

The sequence of events in a short story, beginning with the introduction of characters and setting, building up to the climax or turning point, and leading to the resolution.

A type of conflict in literature where a character struggles against another person or group (e.g., social injustice, conflict of ideas).

The internal conflict within a character's mind, dealing with emotions, decisions, or beliefs.

A conflict where a character faces challenges presented by natural forces (e.g., storms, animals, harsh environments).

Conflict where a character confronts supernatural elements (e.g., ghosts, mythical creatures, magic).

A short story's conclusion, which can be a tidy resolution, an unexpected twist, or an unresolved cliffhanger.

Characters in a story who drive the plot through their actions and dialogue, often evolving and changing over the course of the narrative.

The environment, time period, and emotional atmosphere that create a certain feeling for the reader within a short story.

The central message or idea explored in a literary work, often conveying universal truths or social critiques.

Food and drink in the novel serve as a symbol of community, relationships, and shared experiences.

The radio symbolizes Jefferson's connection to his humanity, playing music that reminds him of his shared experiences and feelings.

In """A Lesson Before Dying""", the concept that Black people might choose to lie to themselves about God's goodness to endure their suffering and maintain hope. This reflects the inherent belief that God is just and good, even though their lived experience contradicts that belief.

A central conflict in "A Lesson Before Dying" where Rev. Ambrose advocates for comforting lies while Grant believes in the power of truth, even if it's painful. This highlights the debate about the role of truth versus compassion in morality.

A situation where men in the Black community often fail to fulfill traditional masculine roles, leaving women to shoulder the responsibility of maintaining dignity and identity. This is exemplified by the absence of strong male figures in the novel.

The ability of a work to present both positive and negative aspects of a subject. In "A Lesson Before Dying", Christianity is depicted as a source of hope and comfort for Black people, but also as a tool used by white oppressors to justify their actions.

Derived from the Elizabethan Period, this play explores the themes of power, ambition, and fate, through the story of a Scottish general who becomes king through treachery and ultimately falls from grace.

A central theme in "Macbeth", where the nature of reality is questioned and characters deceive each other, leading to a downfall for Macbeth.

One of the key events that influenced Shakespeare's writing of "Macbeth". This incident involved a failed attempt to assassinate King James I, the reigning monarch at the time.

This Scottish king was the inspiration for the main character in Shakespeare's play and ruled Scotland from 1040-1057 AD. However, the historical Macbeth was not a murderer, unlike the play's depiction.

A legendary curse associated with Shakespeare's play "Macbeth". It's rumored that anyone who dares to utter the play's name in a theatre, without being in a performance, will experience bad luck or even disaster.

The witches' influence over Macbeth in the play is a key factor contributing to his downfall. Their predictions and manipulations have been a source of debate, with some arguing that they are ultimately responsible for his fate.