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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 happens after Judah ben Baba ordains the new rabbi at their secret meeting?

2. Why does Demonax refuse Elisha's request?

3. What happens to Elisha's grave?

4. What does the realization, that reason could be based in myth, do to Elisha?

5. When does Elisha leave the arena?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. Why do Elisha and Manto hide their mutual love from Rufus, Manto's benefactor?

4. How did Meir honor Elisha after Elisha died?

5. Why does Akiba refuse to speak to Elisha when they see each other on the road?

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

7. Why does Elisha decide not to reveal the names of the new rabbis to Rufus?

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

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

10. What happened to Elisha after he was forced to watch the rabbis be executed?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Elisha proposes to Manto because he loves her. However, Manto rejects Elisha's offer of marriage. Is Manto right to not leave her lifestyle for Elisha? Is Elisha being too selfish and asking too much of Manto, or do you think Manto's love isn't strong enough? Argue for or against Manto's decision. Support your argument with three solid reasons and use material from the text.

Essay Topic 2

Elisha sees a young boy climbing a tree for bird eggs. What happens to the little boy and how does it affect Elisha? Why does Elisha turn to the Jewish tradition for answers and why does it make him even more angry? Should faith account for all the evil and suffering in the world? Can bad things be explained away by faith or reason?

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the contrast between the decision of the people of Bethar and the decision of Elisha when faced with Roman persecution. Why did the people of Bethar choose to commit mass suicide? Who made the wiser choice, the people of Bethar or Elisha? Define wisdom according to the principles of Elisha and the town of Bethar.

(see the answer keys)

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