General Knowledge MCQs
Topic Notes: General Knowledge
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
211
Who authored the novel about a governess’s haunting experiences in a remote estate?
Answer:
Henry James
The Turn of the Screw, written by Henry James and published in 1898, is a gothic novella about a governess who encounters supernatural phenomena while caring for two children. Its ambiguous narrative makes it a classic of psychological horror.
212
Which novel explores the struggles of two migrant workers during the Great Depression?
Answer:
Of Mice and Men
Of Mice and Men, written by John Steinbeck and published in 1937, is a novella that follows migrant workers George and Lennie as they pursue their dream of owning land. Its themes of friendship and the American Dream resonate deeply.
213
Who wrote the satirical novel about a farm where animals revolt against humans?
Answer:
George Orwell
Animal Farm, written by George Orwell and published in 1945, is a satirical allegory that depicts animals overthrowing their human farmer, only to face new forms of tyranny. It critiques totalitarianism, drawing parallels to the Russian Revolution.
214
Which novel depicts a futuristic society where books are banned?
Answer:
Fahrenheit 451
Fahrenheit 451, written by Ray Bradbury and published in 1953, is a dystopian novel set in a future where books are banned and ‘firemen’ burn them. It explores censorship, conformity, and the power of knowledge, remaining a poignant critique of society.
215
Who authored the novel about a whaling captain’s obsessive quest for a white whale?
Answer:
Herman Melville
Moby-Dick, written by Herman Melville and published in 1851, is a novel about Captain Ahab’s obsessive pursuit of the white whale, Moby Dick. Its exploration of obsession, nature, and morality makes it a cornerstone of American literature.
216
Which novel follows a young wizard’s adventures at a magical school?
Answer:
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, written by J. K. Rowling and published in 1997, is the first book in the Harry Potter series. It follows young Harry Potter’s discovery of his wizarding heritage and adventures at Hogwarts, launching a global cultural phenomenon.
217
Who wrote the magical realist novel about a family’s multigenerational saga in Latin America?
Answer:
Gabriel García Márquez
One Hundred Years of Solitude, written by Gabriel García Márquez and published in 1967, is a magical realist novel that chronicles the Buendía family over seven generations in the fictional town of Macondo. It is a masterpiece of Latin American literature.
218
Which novel critiques the American Dream through the life of a mysterious millionaire?
Answer:
The Great Gatsby
The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald and published in 1925, explores the American Dream through Jay Gatsby’s pursuit of wealth and love in the Jazz Age. Its lyrical prose and critique of materialism make it a classic of American literature.
219
Who authored the fantasy novel about a hobbit’s quest to destroy a powerful ring?
Answer:
J. R. R. Tolkien
The Lord of the Rings, written by J. R. R. Tolkien and published in 1954–1955, is a fantasy epic that follows Frodo Baggins’ quest to destroy the One Ring. Its rich world-building and themes of heroism have made it a landmark in fantasy literature.
220
Which thriller novel follows a Harvard professor decoding ancient religious symbols?
Answer:
The Da Vinci Code
The Da Vinci Code, written by Dan Brown and published in 2003, is a bestselling thriller that follows Harvard professor Robert Langdon as he unravels a conspiracy involving the Holy Grail and Christian history. Its fast-paced narrative and historical intrigue made it a global phenomenon.