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
4761
Who is the first known named author in history, a High Priestess of Sumer who wrote hymns to Inanna?
Answer:
Enheduanna
Enheduanna (c. 23rd century BC) wrote the 'Exaltation of Inanna' and is the earliest author known by name in world literature.
4762
The 'Book of the Dead' is an ancient text from which civilization?
Answer:
Egyptian
It is a collection of spells and magic formulas intended to guide the deceased through the afterlife (Duat) and the weighing of the heart.
4763
In the 'Epic of Gilgamesh', who is the wild man created by the gods to be Gilgamesh's equal and companion?
Answer:
Enkidu
Enkidu is created from clay and lives among animals until he is civilized; his death triggers Gilgamesh's quest for immortality.
4764
Which Mesopotamian work is considered the oldest surviving great work of literature?
Answer:
The Epic of Gilgamesh
Dating back to the Third Dynasty of Ur (c. 2100 BC), this Sumerian/Akkadian epic explores themes of friendship, mortality, and the search for eternal life.
4765
The 'Satires' of Juvenal are characterized by their:
Answer:
Biting social criticism
Juvenal's Satires are known for their sharp critique of Roman society, morality, and the vices of his contemporaries.
4766
Which Greek poet is known for his epic 'Argonautica', detailing the voyage of Jason and the Argonauts?
Answer:
Apollonius of Rhodes
'Argonautica' is a Hellenistic epic poem that narrates the adventures of Jason and his crew in their quest for the Golden Fleece.
4767
The 'Book of Songs' (Shijing) is a collection of ancient Chinese poetry that primarily consists of:
Answer:
Folk songs and court poetry
The Shijing is one of the Five Classics of ancient Chinese literature, containing 305 poems that reflect various aspects of early Chinese society.
4768
Rumi, the famous Persian poet, is best known for his works in which poetic form?
Answer:
Masnavi
Rumi's 'Masnavi' is a six-book spiritual epic that explores themes of divine love, mysticism, and the human soul.
4769
The 'Panchatantra' is a collection of ancient Indian fables primarily featuring:
Answer:
Animals with human traits
The Panchatantra uses animal characters to convey moral lessons and practical wisdom for rulers and common people alike.
4770
The 'Satires' of Horace are known for their:
Answer:
Light-hearted humor and social commentary
Horace's Satires blend wit and wisdom, often poking fun at human follies while offering insights into Roman society.