Quiz on The Last Bargain

What does the speaker in the poem primarily seek?

• Wealth

• Power

• Love

• Freedom

Answer explanation

The speaker in the poem primarily seeks freedom, as indicated by their longing for liberation and autonomy, contrasting with desires for wealth, power, or love.

Who offers the speaker the first bargain in the poem?

• A child

• A king

• An old man

• A fair maid

Answer explanation

In the poem, the first bargain is offered to the speaker by a king. This establishes a significant interaction, highlighting the king's authority and the nature of the bargains that follow.

Why does the speaker reject the King's offer of power?

• He desires more power.

• He fears the King's power.

• He believes power will not bring him happiness.

• He wants to serve a more powerful figure.

Answer explanation

The speaker rejects the King's offer because he believes that power will not bring him happiness, indicating a deeper understanding of fulfillment beyond mere authority.

What does the old man offer the speaker in exchange for his work?

• Land

• Gold

• Fame

• A smile

Answer explanation

The old man offers the speaker gold in exchange for his work, indicating a tangible reward for his efforts. This choice stands out among the options, as land, fame, and a smile do not represent direct compensation.

Why does the speaker find the fair maid's offer unsatisfactory?

• Her smile is insincere.

• She demands too much work.

• She offers no tangible reward.

• Her smile fades quickly.

Answer explanation

The speaker finds the fair maid's offer unsatisfactory because her smile fades quickly, indicating a lack of genuine enthusiasm or commitment, which diminishes the appeal of her offer.

What is the child's offer to the speaker?

• A small sum of money

• A place to stay

• Nothing

• The opportunity to play

Answer explanation

The child's offer to the speaker is 'Nothing', indicating that there is no tangible offer made. This choice reflects a lack of any material or playful proposal from the child.

How does the speaker feel about the child's offer?

• Disappointed

• Indifferent

• Delighted

• Confused

Answer explanation

The speaker feels delighted about the child's offer, indicating a positive and joyful reaction to it. This choice reflects an appreciation for the child's gesture.

What is the central theme of the poem "The Last Bargain"?

• The importance of material possessions

• The pursuit of power and wealth

• The value of true freedom and happiness

• The fleeting nature of joy

Answer explanation

The central theme of "The Last Bargain" emphasizes the value of true freedom and happiness over material possessions and power. The poem illustrates that genuine contentment comes from inner fulfillment rather than external wealth.

Which of the following best describes the tone of the poem?

• Optimistic

• Pessimistic

• Humorous

• Tragic

Answer explanation

The poem conveys a sense of hope and positivity, highlighting uplifting themes and a bright outlook on life, which aligns with an optimistic tone.

What is the significance of the child's offer of "nothing"?

• It represents the insignificance of material possessions.

• It symbolizes the importance of genuine human connection.

• It highlights the child's lack of understanding.

• It emphasizes the speaker's desperation for work.

Answer explanation

The child's offer of 'nothing' symbolizes the importance of genuine human connection, suggesting that emotional bonds and relationships are more valuable than material possessions.