Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

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Prepare for the AP English Literature exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your test!

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What type of play often addresses serious themes and moral dilemmas?

Tragedy
Comedy
Drama
Tragicomedy

The correct answer is: Tragedy

The correct choice is tragedy, as this type of play typically grapples with serious themes and moral dilemmas that explore the complexities of human existence, suffering, and ethical conflicts. Tragedies often depict the downfall of central characters due to a combination of personal flaws, societal pressures, and fate. By confronting profound issues such as betrayal, loss, and the consequences of one's actions, tragedies prompt audiences to reflect on moral questions and the human condition. In contrast, comedy generally focuses on humor and often ends in positive resolutions, addressing less serious themes. Drama is a broad category that can include both comedic and tragic elements but does not specifically emphasize the seriousness of themes the way tragedy does. Tragicomedy combines elements of both tragedy and comedy, showcasing serious situations while allowing for moments of humor, but it does not strictly focus on moral dilemmas in the way a tragedy does.