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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. While he is in Gaul, Julian receives word that his wife, Helena, gives birth to:

2. Although he is intrigued by the deities, Julian also believes in:

3. While in Athens, Julian encounters all of the following except:

4. Julian spends 47 days in Athens:

5. After the death of the Bishop, Julian and Gallus agree to:

Short Essay Questions

1. Gallus and his wife, Constantia, appear to be cut from the same cloth. What do you learn about them and their tastes and habits?

2. Describe Julian's initiation into the mysteries of Eleusis. Who initiates him and what are some of the initiation rites?

3. Gallus and Julian have an affair with the same woman, a servant in their household, at the same time. What do you think this says about the two boys?

4. Julian says he longs to be an ordinary student. Name and describe the roles of at least three people who encourage his scholarly ambition.

5. Julian insists that his brother is led astray by Constantia. Do you think this is true? What evidence can you cite to support your answer?

6. Describe Julian's relationship with his brother, Gallus.

7. Once he is appointed Caesar, Julian is immediately sent to Gaul. Constantius surrounds him with spies and men loyal to the Augustus and does not give him much in the way of military or political support. How does Julian deal with this situation?

8. What do the letters of Priscus and Libanius reveal about the culture and customs that exist in Rome at the time of their correspondence?

9. After a few weeks in Athens, Julian is recalled to Italy by his cousin, Augustus Constantius. What is his reaction to being recalled? Why? Why does he think Constantius may be out to get him at this point?

10. What do Basil and Gregory represent to Julian?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

From an early age, Julian has a nose for political correctness and self-preservation. Explore how this tendency to internalize his real thoughts and feelings (some might say deceive others about his true beliefs and intentions) manifested in several aspects of Julian's life.

Essay Topic 2

Hellenism involves the practice of ritual sacrifice as a way of acknowledging, appeasing, thanking or honoring the powers that be. Do some research on the practice of ritual sacrifice as it is practiced in Hellenism and also as it occurs in other cultures/religions. What purpose does sacrifice serve in Julian's mind? What does this aspect of Hellenism reveal about Julian and about his faith?

Essay Topic 3

There are a number of characters and incidents in the story that show a side of Julian that is kind, compassionate, caring and sympathetic. How do you reconcile this aspect of Julian's personality with his political wiliness, his behavior on the battlefield, his contempt for Christianity and efforts to eradicate it, and other harsh or uncompromising aspects? Which is the 'real' Julian?

(see the answer keys)

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