1. Yarbro mentions several important aspects of Roman cultural practice, such as the rites surrounding a child's coming of age or the customs concerning the death of an emperor. How are these customs similar to or different from our own culture's practices? Can you find examples of Roman customs which have survived into the present day?

2. Locadio and Enecus usually prescribe opiates as part of their patients' treatment. Does this practice differ from modern medical procedure? If so, why? How do Salvius's comments about his brother-in-law's use of "hemp flowers" relate to the subject?

3. In discussing Yarbro's Saint-Germain books, critic Jeffrey Elliot mentions that "the horror stems from the history." Could this comment be applied to Locadio's Apprentice as well? If so, what are the situations or events you would identify as horrible or horrific, and why do you consider them...