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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. Where does Diotima think that Love sleeps?

2. How does Socrates view people in Alcibiades' view?

3. What phrase does Socrates use to refer to the practice of learning?

4. What does Alcibiades assure Socrates of before he begins speaking?

5. What are the "statues of Silenus"?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are the statues of Silenus and why does Alcibiades include them in his speech?

2. Who is Diotima and what is significant about the experience Socrates had with her?

3. How does Socrates' theory of passing on knowledge apply to his own life?

4. At the conclusion of his speech, what does Socrates states is the true power or purpose of love?

5. What is the definition that Socrates gives of love?

6. According to Alcibiades, what effect did Socrates have on him?

7. What examples does Socrates provide of what men can leave behind?

8. As explained by Socrates, what is the confusing part of love and what are some of the different kinds of love that exist?

9. What accusation does Alcibiades make against Socrates and why?

10. What does Socrates think the function of love is?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The intentions of Aristophanes' speech are called into question after he makes a clarification at its conclusion.

1) Explain what you think the intentions of Aristophanes are in giving his speech and why.

2) Analyze why Aristophanes would take the time to give a speech that does not take the discussion of love in a significant direction.

3) Describe who Aristophanes' speech might have been designed to offend, either intentionally or unintentionally, and why.

Essay Topic 2

Eryximachus' speech features a departure in the approach of the topic, love.

1) Describe how Eryximachus takes Aristophanes' place in the order of speeches and why.

2) Explain Erystimachus' scientific approach to love, including the role it has in medicine and health.

3) Analyze the major differences in the speeches that took place before Eryximachus' speech and the one that he delivers.

Essay Topic 3

After a brief argument with Socrates, Agathon gives his speech.

1) Explain how Agathon disagrees with Phaedrus.

2) Describe what the characteristics of love are, according to Agathon.

3) Explain how Agathon's reputation for being a playwright might have influenced his thoughts and views about love.

4) Describe the effect that love can have on people as they are given in Agathon's speech.

(see the answer keys)

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