by bernier.greg
Unlock the secrets of literary analysis with this engaging quiz inspired by Thomas C. Foster’s ‘How to Read Literature Like a Professor’. Whether you’re a seasoned reader or just beginning your literary journey, this quiz will challenge your understanding of themes, symbols, and narrative techniques. Sharpen your analytical skills and deepen your appreciation for literature. Good luck, and enjoy the challenge!
We recommend that you do not leave the page that you are taking this quiz in. Stay honest 🙂
How to Read Literature Like a Professor Quiz Questions Overview
1. What does Foster suggest about the significance of meals in literature?
They are always about food.
They symbolize communion and relationships.
They are irrelevant to the plot.
They only occur in historical novels.
2. According to Foster, what does rain often symbolize in literature?
Sadness
Renewal and cleansing
Chaos
Joy
3. What is the ‘quest structure’ that Foster describes?
A hero, a destination, and a reason to go there
A villain, a hero, and a conflict
A journey, a treasure, and a map
A protagonist, an antagonist, and a climax
4. In Foster’s view, what does a physical deformity often signify in literature?
Moral or psychological flaws
Bad luck
Supernatural powers
Historical accuracy
5. What does Foster mean by ‘intertextuality’?
The relationship between texts
The literal meaning of a text
The historical context of a text
The author’s biography
6. According to Foster, why is geography important in literature?
It provides a backdrop for the action.
It influences the characters and plot.
It is a minor detail.
It is only important in travel narratives.
7. What does Foster suggest about the use of seasons in literature?
They are used to mark time.
They symbolize different stages of life.
They are irrelevant to the story.
They only indicate weather conditions.
8. In Foster’s analysis, what does a journey often represent?
A literal trip
A character’s emotional or psychological growth
A waste of time
An adventure
9. What role do symbols play in literature, according to Foster?
They provide literal meanings.
They add complexity and depth.
They are used for decoration.
They simplify the narrative.
10. How does Foster describe the significance of weather in literature?
It is a minor detail.
It sets the mood and atmosphere.
It is irrelevant to the story.
It only affects the setting.
11. What does Foster mean by ‘the literary vampire’?
A literal vampire character
A character who drains others emotionally or morally
A character who is immortal
A character who is afraid of sunlight
12. According to Foster, what does water often symbolize in literature?
Danger
Life and purification
Destruction
Stagnation
13. What does Foster suggest about the use of violence in literature?
It is used for shock value.
It always represents evil.
It can have symbolic meaning.
It is only used in action genres.
14. How does Foster describe the role of irony in literature?
It creates confusion.
It adds humor.
It adds complexity and depth.
It simplifies the plot.
15. What does Foster mean by ‘the hero’s journey’?
A journey with no obstacles
A character’s physical journey
A quest involving trials and transformation
A journey to find a treasure
16. According to Foster, what does a character’s physical appearance often signify?
Their social status
Their personality or inner qualities
Their profession
Their age
17. What does Foster suggest about the significance of flight in literature?
It represents freedom and escape.
It is a literal action.
It is only used in fantasy genres.
It signifies danger.
18. In Foster’s view, what does blindness often symbolize in literature?
Ignorance
Insight and inner vision
Physical weakness
Bad luck
19. What does Foster mean by ‘the Christ figure’ in literature?
A character who performs miracles
A character who sacrifices for others
A religious leader
A character who is immortal
20. According to Foster, what role do political elements play in literature?
They are always explicit.
They add depth and context.
They are irrelevant to the story.
They are only present in historical novels.
We recommend that you do not leave the page that you are taking this quiz in. Stay honest 🙂
