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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. In Eryximachus' opinion, what is education in musical terms?
(a) The analysis of an existing composition.
(b) The correct performance of an existing composition.
(c) The criticism of new songs.
(d) The composition of new songs.

2. Which one of the following is not one of the features that Aristophanes includes in his description of what humans were once like?
(a) They could roll over at great speeds.
(b) They could walk backwards or forwards.
(c) They had four ears.
(d) They could move objects through telepathy.

3. As explained by Phaedrus, how does Orpheus die as a result of his cowardice?
(a) He is dragged through the streets.
(b) At the hands of women.
(c) He is beaten with clubs.
(d) He is thrown off of a cliff.

4. As Pausanius explains, who is the oldest goddess of love's father?
(a) Poseidon.
(b) Uranus.
(c) Apollo.
(d) Zeus.

5. How many kinds of love does Pausanius think there are?
(a) One.
(b) Three.
(c) Four.
(d) Two.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Aristophanes define love?

2. What is the size of the audience that sees Agathon's play?

3. What memory does Aristophanes believe humans are supposed to have of their creation?

4. How does Socrates respond to the idea of speaking about love?

5. What princess does Phaedrus use as an example for a sacrifice made out of Love?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the setting of the Symposium and the circumstances around it?

2. What might be seen as controversial about Pausanias' speech?

3. How is the subject of the speeches at the Symposium decided?

4. Why does Phaedrus include the story of Achilles in his speech?

5. What is the purpose of love, according to Eryximachus?

6. How many kinds of love does Pausanias claim there are and why?

7. What is the difference in the loves that Pausanias describes?

8. As Eryximachus explains, what is the role of a doctor in healing a patient?

9. How does Phaedrum describe love at the beginning of his speech?

10. What do Socrates and Aristodemus talk about on the way to the house and what is Aristodemus' dilemma?

(see the answer keys)

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