Japanese History Quiz

The design of a Shinto temple would most likely draw attention to

• a code of moral rules.

• worship of foreign gods.

• the cycle of pain and suffering.

• respect for the beauty of nature.

In Buddhist teachings, how does meditation help lead to wisdom?

• by teaching the steps to a moral life

• by emptying the mind of distracting thoughts

• by providing a time to regret one's sins

• by encouraging the study of books by enlightened teachers

How can one tell whether a Japanese poem is a tanka?

• by counting the syllables in each line

• by identifying the social class described

• by analyzing the symbols described

• by checking whether pairs of lines rhyme

Which group was most responsible for the achievements of Japan's golden age?

• aristocrats

• farmers

• emperors

• merchants

Most of the leading writers of the Heian period were

• priests.

• women.

• peasants.

• foreigners.

Why is the "Tale of Genji" especially famous?

• It records the lives of ordinary farmers.

• It reveals secrets about the royal family.

• It was retold as an oral history.

• It may have been the world's first novel.

What is one important way in which Prince Shotoku changed Japan?

• He turned it into an agricultural society.

• He divided power among the chiefs of clans.

• He increased contact with neighboring cultures.

• He introduced the craft of bronze and iron smithing.

The main job of the shogun was to

• give advice to the emperor.

• rule through military power.

• encourage arts and literature.

• loyally serve and obey his lord.

Which of the following was a benefit of the samurai style of armor?

• It allowed them free movement.

• It showed their strength in battle.

• It was inexpensive to purchase.

• It made them demonstrate courage.

Which of these principles would a teacher of samurai most likely emphasize?

• Avoid pain and suffering.

• Have mercy on your enemy.

• Always be prepared and alert.

• Do whatever you can to stay alive.