Review Questions

I.

1. What did Engels say about the Renaissance period as the beginning of a new ideology?

2. How did the ideas of the Renaissance influence European politics in general, and the English monarchy and religion in particular?

3. What is meant by the Revival of Learning?

4. Who was Sir Thomas More? Why is his work "Utopia" historically important?

5. Speak about the different forms of literature that appeared during the Renaissance. What was the role of the theatres at that time?

II.

1. Into how many periods is Shakespeare' creative work divided? Name the chief plays written during each period.

2. How does the character of Viola, who acts on her own initiative, differ from the women of the Middle Ages, who acted according to religious dogmas in defiance of reason?

3. In what way does Shakespeare affirm the right of man to freedom and happiness? Refer to his comedies. How can you tell that Shakespeare believed in the

triumph of virtue and reason?

4. What features of the life of his time are revealed by Shakespeare in the tragedy of "Hamlet"?

5. Describe the complex character of Hamlet.

6. Explain how the ideals of the Renaissance conflict with the evil forces of the time.

7. Speak about the different interpretations of Hamlet's tragedy.

8. Speak about the Shakespearian sonnet. Explain the ideas expressed in the sonnets LV, CXLVII.

9. What was Shakespeare's contribution to world literature?

"Methinks I see in my mind a noble and puissant nation

rousing herself like a strong man after sleep…"

Milton

III. English Literature During