eng 210 book 1

Exam Overview

• The exam was scored out of 50 points, with a typical bell curve distribution.

• Average score: 37/50, median score: slightly lower, around 35.

• High scores contributed to the average; top scores were in the 48-47 range.

• Grading strategy:

  • Scores beating the average received an A- or A.

  • Average to slightly below average received B+, with most grades falling within the B range.

Exam Feedback

• General expectation of improvement as familiarity with the material increases, especially with Paradise Lost being more accessible due to its narrative structure.

• Specific grading notes:

  • Partial credit was awarded for comprehension questions when relevant content was provided.

Comprehension Questions Breakdown

1. First Passage (Nativity Ode): Dark at night; metaphor for Jesus not implied.

2. Second Question: "Spangled host" refers to stars and metaphorically to angels.

3. Third Question: "Star-led wizards" refers to the wise men.

4. Fourth Question: "Prevent them with thy humble ode" indicates urging the muse to arrive first at the nativity scene.

5. Fifth Question: "His blessed feet" refers to baby Jesus' feet.

Second Passage Analysis

(La Allegro)

1. Goddess Addressed: Euphrosyne, associated with mirth.

2. Two Possible Fathers: Bacchus or Zephyr.

3. "Clips and cranks and wanton wiles": Refers to witty interaction and playful banter.

4. Wrinkled Care: Care as a personification representing stress which leads to premature aging.

5. "Unreproven pleasures free": Suggests carefree pleasure free from judgment.

Third Passage Insights

(Lycidas)

1. Why Poetry? Tends to development of poetry despite being a thankless task.

2. "Sport with Amaryllis in the shade": Refers to frivolous pastoral love poetry.

3. Threat to Fame: Death, or blind fury that causes premature death.

4. Fame as Infirmity: Fame is a weakness even for noble minds.

5. Source of Reward: Ultimately from God.

Final Passage Reflection

(Ariopagitica)

1. Books as Living Entities: Books carry the intellect of their authors, surviving past them.

2. Counterargument: Acknowledge that books can lead to unrest, thus must not be censored.

3. Killing Books vs. Killing Men: Destroying a good book is akin to killing reason itself.

4. Truth Across Ages: Ideas once lost may not be readily regained; reference to the Bible.

5. Metaphor of Martyrdom: Destruction of books is likened to murder, each book lost represents an intellectual death.

Essay Writing Strategies

• Specificity is crucial in thesis statements; avoid vague claims.

• Long, detailed essays that refer to passages will score better; incorporate secondary sources for richer analysis.

• Close reading of passages needed; avoid abstract discussions that detach from the text.

• Ensure well-organized essays with clear paragraph divisions and grammatical accuracy.

Time Management Recommendations

• Practice will improve speed and comprehension, allowing for better essay completion.

• Good preparation will help manage comprehension questions efficiently, leaving more time for essay work.

• Continued reading practice of Paradise Lost is encouraged for deeper understanding of language and themes.