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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 does Charicles finally say about mathematics and science?

2. After Elisha receives a letter of commendation from head of the museum in Alexandria, who does he rush to show the letter to?

3. What causes Charicles to change his mind about Elisha?

4. How does Charicles first feel about Elisha?

5. What do the people of Bethar do when they realize that the Romans will soon overrun their town?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the symbolism behind Rufus making Elisha sit beside a harlot during the executions.

2. Why does Elisha's discussion with Charicles deeply disturb Elisha?

3. Why do the rabbis have to meet in secret in the attic?

4. What does Elisha tell Meir about faith and reason?

5. Why did Charicles not want to speak with Elisha at first?

6. What did Manto make Elisha vow to do, as she lay dying in his arms?

7. Rufus presents a life or death question to Pappas and Elisha. How does Elisha respond?

8. Elisha's life was controversial and devastating as he searched for truth. Was Elisha's search for truth in vain?

9. Why is Elisha not happy about his relationship with Manto?

10. How did Meir honor Elisha after Elisha died?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

After the ex-communication, Akiba randomly meets Elisha on the road. However, Akiba does not speak to Elisha because he is honoring the orders of the ex-communication. Is Akiba's behavior too drastic? Should the bonds of friendship be more important than the bonds of law? Cite three examples from the book when friendship and rules are at odds.

Essay Topic 2

Why do you think Manto is so casual about picking another human slave? Why is Elisha so disturbed by the process of human trade? Compare Manto's behavior with a similar behavior in American history. Draw conclusions about the nature of subjugating another human being and how this affects the human race.

Essay Topic 3

Within the various communities of As a Driven Leaf, knowledge seems to be a precious commodity held in high regard. Is it possible that there are universal truths, or is truth subjective to culture? Explain by using three examples that relate to the teachings of the Jewish tradition and the Sanhedrin, as well as the lessons and literature of the Greeks.

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This section contains 919 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample