In M.R. James’s “More Ghost Stories,” which story features a school setting, emphasizing the folklore and mythology often found in such institutions?
- A School Story
- The Rose Garden
- The Tractate Middoth
- Casting the Runes
Correct Answer: A School Story
Correct Answer Explanation: “A School Story” is one of the more famous stories in the collection, known for its focus on a spooky school environment. It showcases how stories and legends are passed down through generations, creating a unique atmosphere of unease in the school.
In the story “The Rose Garden,” how does the shared dream among characters influence the supernatural events that follow?
- It leads to a chilling encounter with the past.
- It reveals a secret about the characters’ relationships.
- It causes a sudden outbreak of illness.
- It unleashes a dark force that haunts the garden.
Correct Answer: It leads to a chilling encounter with the past.
Correct Answer Explanation: The shared dream, featuring a young boy being tried in a courtroom, serves as a catalyst for the supernatural occurrences in the story. This eerie dream becomes intertwined with reality, leading to a frightening encounter with the past.
Which story in “More Ghost Stories” explores the use of “Runes” and their potential for influencing events and individuals?
- The Tractate Middoth
- The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral
- Casting the Runes
- Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance
Correct Answer: Casting the Runes
Correct Answer Explanation: “Casting the Runes” delves into the world of “Runes,” exploring their historical use in ancient Germanic languages for writing and divination. The story highlights the dangers of manipulating events through such practices, adding a layer of suspense and mystery to the narrative.
In the story “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral,” what tradition existed in the village that involved hanging straw puppets on a specific tree?
- This tradition was believed to influence events, possibly through sympathetic magic.
- This tradition was used to appease the spirits of the dead.
- This tradition was a form of folk art.
- This tradition was associated with a local festival.
Correct Answer: This tradition was believed to influence events, possibly through sympathetic magic.
Correct Answer Explanation: The Hanging Oak, a significant tree in the story, was the subject of this tradition, where villagers hung straw puppets on its branches, hoping to influence individuals or situations. This practice reflects a belief in sympathetic magic, where objects were used to represent and manipulate events.
Which story in “More Ghost Stories” explores the historical trial of George Martin, presided over by the infamous Judge Jeffreys?
- The Tractate Middoth
- Martin’s Close
- The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral
- Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance
Correct Answer: Martin’s Close
Correct Answer Explanation: “Martin’s Close” centers around the trial of George Martin, highlighting the brutal justice system of the Bloody Assizes, led by the notorious Judge Jeffreys. This historical context adds depth and complexity to the story, revealing the social and political landscape of the late 17th century in England.
In the story “Casting the Runes,” what specific literary work is referenced, highlighting its influence in the late 19th century?
- The Canterbury Tales
- The Divine Comedy
- The Ancient Mariner
- Beowulf
Correct Answer: The Ancient Mariner
Correct Answer Explanation: “Casting the Runes” includes a reference to “The Ancient Mariner,” showcasing its popularity and influence during the late 19th century. This mention reflects the enduring appeal of Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem, illustrating its cultural significance in the era.
What is the name of the historical figure who wrote a book on witchcraft and is mentioned in the story “Casting the Runes”?
- John Harrington
- John Dee
- William Shakespeare
- Christopher Marlowe
Correct Answer: John Harrington
Correct Answer Explanation: John Harrington, a prominent figure in the story “Casting the Runes,” is associated with a book on witchcraft, highlighting the fascination with the occult in the late 19th century. The story explores the potential dangers of delving into forbidden knowledge, adding a sense of intrigue and mystery to the narrative.
In the story “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral,” what is the name of the book that Dr. Haynes translates and publishes?
- Argonautica
- Aeneid
- Odyssey
- Iliad
Correct Answer: Argonautica
Correct Answer Explanation: Dr. Haynes, a character in “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral,” is a scholar who translates and publishes a book titled “Argonautica,” written by Valerius Flaccus. This highlights the scholarly interests of the clergy in the early 19th century, emphasizing their engagement with classical literature and history.
Which story in “More Ghost Stories” features a scene with a voice singing outside an inn, creating an unsettling atmosphere?
- The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral
- Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance
- Martin’s Close
- The Rose Garden
Correct Answer: Martin’s Close
Correct Answer Explanation: “Martin’s Close” features a scene where a voice is heard singing outside an inn, adding a layer of mystery and unease to the narrative. The eerie voice suggests the presence of a supernatural force, further unsettling the atmosphere and raising questions about the nature of reality.
In “Mr. Humphreys and his Inheritance,” the “Temple of Friendship” is modeled after which famous architectural site?
- The Parthenon
- The Colosseum
- The Sibyl’s Temple at Tivoli
- The Hagia Sophia
Correct Answer: The Sibyl’s Temple at Tivoli
Correct Answer Explanation: The “Temple of Friendship” in “Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance” draws inspiration from the Sibyl’s Temple at Tivoli, a significant architectural site in ancient Rome. This detail highlights the enduring influence of Classical architecture and the Grand Tour, a popular travel route for wealthy Europeans in the 19th century.
Which story in “More Ghost Stories” explores the growing interest in folklore, mythology, and comparative religion in the 19th century?
- The Tractate Middoth
- Casting the Runes
- The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral
- Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance
Correct Answer: Casting the Runes
Correct Answer Explanation: “Casting the Runes” references prominent works like “The Golden Legend” and “The Golden Bough,” showcasing the burgeoning interest in folklore, mythology, and comparative religion during the 19th century. These references reflect the broader intellectual trends of the era, where scholars and writers sought to understand the world through different cultural perspectives.
In “Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance,” what is the name of the church mentioned, highlighting the popularity of church architecture and tourism in the 19th century?
- St. Paul’s Cathedral
- Westminster Abbey
- St. Wulfram’s Church
- Notre Dame Cathedral
Correct Answer: St. Wulfram’s Church
Correct Answer Explanation: “Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance” makes a passing mention of St. Wulfram’s Church in Abbeville, France, illustrating the growing interest in church architecture and tourism during the 19th century. This detail reflects the broader cultural trend of exploring historical sites and architectural wonders, a practice associated with the Grand Tour.
Which story in “More Ghost Stories” features an advertisement for a product called Pyretic Saline, reflecting the increasing presence of advertising in everyday life in the early 20th century?
- Casting the Runes
- The Tractate Middoth
- The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral
- Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance
Correct Answer: Casting the Runes
Correct Answer Explanation: The story “Casting the Runes” includes an advertisement for Pyretic Saline, a product likely related to the treatment of fever, highlighting the rising influence of advertising in everyday life during the early 20th century. This detail reflects the growing commercialization of society and the increasing presence of marketing efforts across various aspects of daily life.
What is the approximate size of the school mentioned in “A School Story,” offering a glimpse into the scale of private schools in the 19th century?
- 50-60 boys
- 120-130 boys
- 200-250 boys
- 300-350 boys
Correct Answer: 120-130 boys
Correct Answer Explanation: “A School Story” mentions that the school typically had between 120 and 130 boys, providing a sense of the size and scale of private schools in the 19th century. This detail sheds light on the social and educational landscape of the time, revealing the prevalence of such institutions in providing education to the upper classes.
What is the name of the craftsman who carved the stalls in Barchester Cathedral, illustrating the use of local artisans in church construction?
- John Austin
- John Harrington
- George Martin
- Thomas Pulteney
Correct Answer: John Austin
Correct Answer Explanation: In “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral,” the inscription mentions John Austin, a local craftsman who carved the stalls, showcasing the reliance on local artisans for church construction during the 17th century. This detail highlights the importance of skilled craftspeople in creating and maintaining religious structures, reflecting the close ties between local communities and their churches.
What is the name of the famous maze mentioned in “Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance,” highlighting the widespread popularity of mazes in the 19th century?
- The Hampton Court Maze
- The Kew Gardens Maze
- The Versailles Maze
- The Labyrinth of Crete
Correct Answer: The Hampton Court Maze
Correct Answer Explanation: “Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance” mentions the maze at Hampton Court, a popular attraction in England, highlighting the widespread appeal of mazes during the 19th century. These intricate gardens provided a source of entertainment and amusement for people of all ages, reflecting the evolving cultural landscape and the growing popularity of leisure activities.
What is the name of the popular illustrated work on religious practices referenced in “Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance,” showcasing the growing interest in comparative religion and anthropology in the 19th century?
- Picart’s Religious Ceremonies
- The Golden Bough
- The Golden Legend
- The Argonautica
Correct Answer: Picart’s Religious Ceremonies
Correct Answer Explanation: The story “Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance” includes a reference to “Picart’s Religious Ceremonies,” a prominent illustrated work that showcased religious practices from various cultures around the world. This mention highlights the growing interest in comparative religion and anthropology during the 19th century, as scholars sought to understand different cultural traditions and belief systems.
In the story “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral,” what is the amount of the quarterly payment Dr. Haynes makes to Jane Lee, reflecting the financial arrangements between employers and servants in the early 19th century?
- £5
- £10
- £25
- £50
Correct Answer: £25
Correct Answer Explanation: “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral” details a quarterly payment of £25 made by Dr. Haynes to Jane Lee, highlighting the financial arrangements between employers and servants in the early 19th century. This detail sheds light on the economic realities of the time, revealing the typical wages and expenses associated with employing domestic staff.
What is the approximate age of Archdeacon Pulteney in “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral,” showcasing the longevity of individuals in the early 19th century?
- 70 years old
- 80 years old
- 92 years old
- 100 years old
Correct Answer: 92 years old
Correct Answer Explanation: Archdeacon Pulteney, a character in “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral,” lives to the age of 92, illustrating the relatively long lifespans of individuals in the early 19th century. This detail reflects the overall health and longevity of people during that period, showcasing the potential for individuals to live to advanced ages.
In the story “The Tractate Middoth,” what is the year the will of John Rant is dated, providing a historical context for the story?
- 1850
- 1875
- 1900
- 1925
Correct Answer: 1875
Correct Answer Explanation: “The Tractate Middoth” features a will dated 1875, belonging to John Rant, establishing a historical context for the story. This detail provides a reference point for understanding the social and legal practices surrounding wills and inheritances during the late 19th century.
What is the year of the first letter in the story “Casting the Runes,” indicating the story takes place in the early 20th century?
- 1880
- 1890
- 190-
- 1920
Correct Answer: 190-
Correct Answer Explanation: The first letter in “Casting the Runes” is dated 190-, indicating the story takes place in the early 20th century. This detail situates the narrative within a specific historical context, allowing readers to connect the story to the social and cultural trends of the period.
In the story “Casting the Runes,” what is the year of John Harrington’s death, highlighting the late 19th-century context of the story?
- 1870
- 1889
- 1900
- 1910
Correct Answer: 1889
Correct Answer Explanation: “Casting the Runes” mentions the death of John Harrington in 1889, establishing a late 19th-century context for the story. This detail anchors the narrative within a specific historical period, allowing readers to understand the social and cultural influences shaping the events within the story.
In the story “Martin’s Close,” what is the year a gibbet was purchased for the execution of George Martin, according to the parish records?
- 1684
- 1699
- 1710
- 1720
Correct Answer: 1684
Correct Answer Explanation: “Martin’s Close” mentions that a gibbet was purchased in 1684 for the execution of George Martin, as recorded in the parish records. This detail provides a specific historical reference, anchoring the story within a particular time period and allowing readers to connect it to the broader social and legal context of the late 17th century.
What is the name of the ancient Greek hero who is mentioned in the story “Mr. Humphreys and his Inheritance,” showcasing the continuing influence of classical mythology in the 19th century?
- Hercules
- Achilles
- Theseus
- Odysseus
Correct Answer: Theseus
Correct Answer Explanation: The story “Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance” includes a reference to Theseus, a prominent hero in Greek mythology, highlighting the enduring influence of classical mythology in the 19th century. This mention reflects the continuing interest in ancient tales and the ways in which these stories resonated with the cultural imagination during that period.
Which story in “More Ghost Stories” features a scene where a man is found dead in bed with a horseshoe mark on his forehead, adding a spooky element to the narrative?
- The Tractate Middoth
- The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral
- The Rose Garden
- A School Story
Correct Answer: A School Story
Correct Answer Explanation: “A School Story” features a scene where a man is found dead in bed with a horseshoe mark on his forehead, creating a spooky and unsettling atmosphere. This detail contributes to the overall sense of unease and mystery within the story, adding a layer of intrigue to the events unfolding.
What is the specific term used to describe a person who is excessively concerned with their health in the story “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral”?
- Hypochondriac
- Valentudinarian
- Asthmatic
- Melancholic
Correct Answer: Valentudinarian
Correct Answer Explanation: “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral” includes a description of Dr. Haynes, a character in the story, as a “Valentudinarian,” highlighting his excessive preoccupation with his health. This specific term adds a touch of irony and humor to the narrative, emphasizing the character’s unique quirks and anxieties.
What is the approximate number of years it is estimated to take to restore order to the Archdeaconry in “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral”?
- 1 year
- 2 years
- 3 years
- 4 years
Correct Answer: 3 years
Correct Answer Explanation: Dr. Haynes, a character in “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral,” estimates that it will take three years to restore order to the Archdeaconry, highlighting the extent of the administrative challenges facing the archdeacon. This detail sheds light on the complexities of running a large institution and the time it takes to address various issues and implement necessary changes.
In “Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance,” the story describes a type of art form that involves pruning plants into decorative shapes. What is this art form called?
- Bonsai
- Topiary
- Horticulture
- Landscape Architecture
Correct Answer: Topiary
Correct Answer Explanation: “Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance” features a description of topiary, an art form that involves pruning plants into decorative shapes. This detail highlights the attention to detail and aesthetic appreciation present in the story, showcasing the various ways in which people interacted with the natural world during the 19th century.
In the story “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral,” what is the name of the book that is mentioned as being a detailed and descriptive catalog of a collection of books or artworks?
- Catalogue raisonné
- The Golden Legend
- The Argonautica
- The Golden Bough
Correct Answer: Catalogue raisonné
Correct Answer Explanation: “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral” features a mention of a “catalogue raisonné,” a specific type of catalog that provides detailed descriptions and analysis of a collection of books or artworks. This term highlights the scholarly approach taken by Dr. Haynes, showcasing his meticulous attention to detail and his commitment to documenting and preserving knowledge.
Which story in “More Ghost Stories” features a reference to the ancient Greek figure Chore, who was punished by being forced to support the celestial sphere?
- The Rose Garden
- The Tractate Middoth
- Casting the Runes
- Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance
Correct Answer: The Rose Garden
Correct Answer Explanation: “The Rose Garden” includes a reference to Chore, an ancient Greek figure punished for his hubris by being forced to eternally support the celestial sphere. This mythological reference adds a layer of symbolism to the story, hinting at the consequences of pride and the enduring power of ancient stories.
In “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral,” what specific architectural element is missing from the archdeacon’s house, leading to a series of unsettling events?
- A window pane
- A door handle
- A stair-rod
- A chimney pot
Correct Answer: A stair-rod
Correct Answer Explanation: “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral” features a missing stair-rod in the archdeacon’s house, serving as a catalyst for a series of unsettling events in the story. This detail highlights the importance of seemingly mundane objects and how their absence can create a sense of unease and disrupt the normalcy of everyday life.
In the story “Martin’s Close,” what is the name of the center of social activity and gossip in the village, providing a setting for a significant encounter between characters?
- The Old Inn
- The New Inn
- The Red Lion
- The Black Swan
Correct Answer: The New Inn
Correct Answer Explanation: “Martin’s Close” features The New Inn as a center of social activity and gossip in the village, providing a setting for the encounter between George Martin and Ann Clark. This detail highlights the importance of taverns and inns as gathering places in rural communities, serving as hubs for social interaction, information exchange, and entertainment.
In the story “Casting the Runes,” what is the name of the specific type of symbol used in ancient Germanic languages for writing and divination?
- Hieroglyphics
- Runes
- Pictograms
- Ideograms
Correct Answer: Runes
Correct Answer Explanation: “Casting the Runes” focuses on the use of “Runes,” a specific type of symbol used in ancient Germanic languages for writing and divination. This detail adds a layer of mystique and intrigue to the story, highlighting the fascination with ancient practices and the potential for manipulating events through symbolic systems.
What is the name of the specific medieval Spanish theologian and biblical commentator referenced in the story “Mr. Humphreys and his Inheritance”?
- Tostatus Abulensis
- John Harrington
- John Dee
- William Shakespeare
Correct Answer: Tostatus Abulensis
Correct Answer Explanation: “Mr. Humphreys and His Inheritance” includes a reference to Tostatus Abulensis, a medieval Spanish theologian and biblical commentator. This detail showcases the breadth of knowledge and scholarship present in the story’s setting, highlighting the vast and often inaccessible nature of historical libraries.
In the story “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral,” what is the specific term used to describe a person who is an expert in gardening or landscaping?
- Botanist
- Florist
- Signosier
- Arborist
Correct Answer: Signosier
Correct Answer Explanation: “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral” features a mention of a “signosier,” a specific term used to describe a person who is an expert in gardening or landscaping. This detail highlights the importance of knowledge and skill in managing and maintaining gardens, showcasing the appreciation for natural beauty and the role of skilled professionals in creating and caring for outdoor spaces.
What is the name of the specific type of fence or enclosure mentioned in the story “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral,” adding a touch of historical detail to the narrative?
- Palisadoes
- Hedge
- Wall
- Gate
Correct Answer: Palisadoes
Correct Answer Explanation: “The Stalls of Barchester Cathedral” features a mention of “palisadoes,” a specific type of fence or enclosure made of stakes or poles. This detail adds a touch of historical authenticity to the story, showcasing the materials and construction techniques used during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Which story in “More Ghost Stories” features a scene where a man hears a noise in the passage at night, opens his door, and sees someone crawling towards him on all fours with his eye hanging out on his cheek, showcasing a common type of ghost story often retold in private schools?
- The Rose Garden
- The Tractate Middoth
- Casting the Runes
- A School Story
Correct Answer: A School Story
Correct Answer Explanation: “A School Story” features a scene where a man hears a noise in the passage at night, opens his door, and sees someone crawling towards him on all fours with his eye hanging out on his cheek. This specific detail highlights a common type of ghost story often retold in private schools, showcasing the enduring power of these tales in shaping the collective imagination and perpetuating a sense of unease.