MCQs | Of Studies MCQs | Of Studies | Of Studies by Francis Bacon MCQs | Francis Bacon | Free PDF Download – Easy Literary Lessons
1. What are the three main purposes of studies according to Bacon?
A. Delight, Ornament, Ability
B. Power, Wealth, Knowledge
C. Creativity, Logic, Reasoning
D. Truth, Beauty, Justice
Answer: A (Delight, Ornament, Ability)
Explanation: Francis Bacon identifies the three fundamental purposes of studies as delight, ornament, and ability. Delight refers to personal enjoyment derived from private reading and learning. Ornament highlights the enhancement of one’s conversation skills, making interactions more eloquent. Ability refers to the practical application of knowledge in handling business or professional decisions, showcasing studies’ utility.
2. According to Bacon, studies serve as delight in:
A. Public Speaking
B. Solitude and Retirement
C. Social Gatherings
D. Professional Meetings
Answer: B (Solitude and Retirement)
Explanation: Bacon associates the delight of studies with moments of privacy and retirement. He implies that the joy of learning and reading is best experienced in solitude, where one can reflect and enjoy knowledge without distractions. Public or professional settings focus more on studies’ practical benefits, but the personal delight they offer is a more intimate and contemplative experience.
3. What does Bacon mean by “Studies serve for ornament”?
A. Decoration of homes
B. Enhancement in conversations
C. Display of books in libraries
D. Showcasing intelligence publicly
Answer: B (Enhancement in conversations)
Explanation: Bacon uses the term “ornament” metaphorically to describe how studies improve the way people communicate and present ideas. A well-read person is equipped with knowledge and arguments that enhance their discourse. Studies refine speech and add depth to conversations, making them engaging and effective. This benefit focuses on intellectual elegance rather than superficial decoration.
4. Spending too much time in studies is described as:
A. Affectation
B. Sloth
C. Excellence
D. Pretentiousness
Answer: B (Sloth)
Explanation: Bacon warns against excessive devotion to studies, as it can lead to laziness or a lack of productivity. He believes that while learning is essential, it should not come at the cost of practical action. Studies must be balanced with experience and application; otherwise, they turn into mere academic indulgence without real-world utility, which he equates to intellectual sloth.
5. Bacon categorizes books into how many types?
A. Two
B. Three
C. Four
D. Five
Answer: B (Three)
Explanation: Bacon classifies books into three types: those to be tasted, swallowed, and chewed and digested. This categorization reflects the different levels of engagement required for various books. Some books are to be skimmed (tasted), some read with moderate attention (swallowed), and a few studied in-depth (chewed and digested). This distinction highlights the varied significance and utility of literature.
6. What are the types of books according to Bacon?
A. Tasted, Swallowed, Chewed and Digested
B. Read, Discussed, Debated
C. Fiction, Non-fiction, Poetry
D. Believed, Contradicted, Accepted
Answer: A (Tasted, Swallowed, Chewed and Digested)
Explanation: Bacon uses a metaphor to describe how books should be approached based on their content and importance. Books to be tasted are read selectively for general knowledge, while those to be swallowed are read entirely but not critically. The most important books, chewed and digested, require detailed analysis and reflection. This categorization encourages readers to prioritize based on value.
7. Which subject does Bacon suggest for a wandering mind?
A. Logic
B. Mathematics
C. History
D. Philosophy
Answer: B (Mathematics)
Explanation: Bacon recommends mathematics for a wandering or unfocused mind because its logical structure and problem-solving nature demand precision and concentration. Mathematical studies require a person to follow clear steps and cannot be done half-heartedly. This focus helps discipline the mind and strengthens its capacity to concentrate on specific tasks or arguments.
8. “Histories make men ___,” according to Bacon:
A. Logical
B. Witty
C. Wise
D. Curious
Answer: C (Wise)
Explanation: Bacon believes that studying history imparts wisdom by providing insights into past events, decisions, and their consequences. By analyzing historical patterns, individuals can develop foresight, judgment, and an understanding of human nature. This knowledge equips them to make informed decisions and avoid repeating past mistakes, thus enhancing their practical wisdom.
9. Bacon describes excessive use of studies for ornamentation as:
A. Humility
B. Sloth
C. Affectation
D. Wisdom
Answer: C (Affectation)
Explanation: Bacon criticizes the overuse of studies merely to showcase one’s intellect as affectation, which means pretentiousness or artificiality. He stresses that studies should serve practical and intellectual purposes, not just as a tool for vanity. Excessive ornamentation in conversation may make a person seem insincere or ostentatious, detracting from genuine understanding.
10. Which metaphor does Bacon use for refining natural abilities?
A. Growing Trees
B. Pruning Plants
C. Flowing Rivers
D. Rising Mountains
Answer: B (Pruning Plants)
Explanation: Bacon compares natural abilities to plants, which need pruning to grow properly. Similarly, studies refine and perfect innate talents by providing discipline and direction. Without the guidance and structure offered by education, natural abilities remain unpolished and untamed. This metaphor emphasizes the transformative power of learning in shaping human potential.
