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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is an example of unrehearsed communication?
(a) Letter writing.
(b) A speech.
(c) Public oratory.
(d) Music.

2. What does Seneca say cannot be learned only through reading?
(a) Virtue.
(b) Mythology.
(c) Astronomy.
(d) Writing.

3. What does Seneca say in Letter XVI is of no interest to the wise man?
(a) Having more than the basic needs.
(b) Playing a role in public service.
(c) Having a political seat of power.
(d) Investing in gold.

4. Who does Seneca praise in Letter XI?
(a) Lucilius' friend.
(b) Lucilius' ancestors.
(c) Lucilius' father.
(d) Lucilius himself.

5. While looking for witty entertainment, what does Seneca stumble upon?
(a) A poetry reading.
(b) A musical production.
(c) A comedian telling jokes.
(d) A gladiator battle.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Seneca say about the Stoic troubled by no external concerns?

2. In Letter XII, what does Seneca's property remind him?

3. According to Seneca, who doesn't care if he is rich or poor?

4. What type of studies does Letter XII use as an example?

5. According to Seneca, if one begins taking lessons other than philosophy, what happens?

Short Essay Questions

1. According to Seneca, from where where does one's soul originate?

2. What is the difference between physical and spiritual ailments, according the Seneca's seasick boat trip example?

3. According to Seneca, how much concern should a wise man have regarding his or others' physical beauty?

4. What does Seneca say about developing friendships?

5. What is a "quibbler" and what advice does Seneca offer to Lucilius about quibblers?

6. In Letter II, how does Seneca advise Lucilius to proceed with his study of philosophy?

7. What does Seneca say about the study of philosophy?

8. Discuss the necessity of and the problem with diversions, according to Seneca.

9. What is a sedan chair and why does Seneca use one occasionally?

10. How does noise affect Seneca's studies and how does his explanation become a metaphor for the Stoic soul?

(see the answer keys)

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