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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. What was John Italus accused of spreading?

2. What are the names of Robert's sons?

3. What military advantage does Robert have?

4. What army does Tzelgu command according to Anna in Book VII?

5. Which of Alexius' allies had to retreat after a defeat?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Anna believe about her fortune and why?

2. What is the conflict over choosing the Emperor?

3. What happened to Paleaologus during one of the battles described in Book IV?

4. In Book V, what ancient law did Alexius examine and who acted in opposition?

5. At the end of Book VII, what plot does Alexius hear of?

6. What is the prophecy at the end of Book II?

7. What does Alexius discover on his way back to Constantinople and what does Alexius do as a result?

8. What does Alexius realize about Robert in Book V?

9. What did Anna the Elder do for the Empire?

10. What problems arise with the Ducas family at the beginning of Book III?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

"The Alexiad" includes several conspiracies which focus on destabilizing Alexius and the throne. In an essay, compare two or three of the conspiracies discussed in "The Alexiad", including how they were planned and the tactics that would have been employed had they not been uncovered. Use the text to support your discussion.

Essay Topic 2

Anna Comnena applauds her parents and their relationship in "The Alexiad". In an essay, analyze their role in the author's life and conclude whether you think this praise is deserved. Use examples from the text and secondary sources to support your discussion.

Essay Topic 3

The Scythian War began as a result of Tzelgu's actions; however, it was perpetuated because of Alexius' lack of belief that the Scythians wanted peace. In an essay, discuss Alexius' refusal to believe them and the result of this conclusion, using the text to support your statements.

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