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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. In Book 2 of Essays, Essay #11, Montaigne contrasts virtue with what?

2. In Montaigne's story about the man leading a large number of troops, what moves the man to act with mercy?

3. Montaigne states that his method for discussing the book that is the topic of Book 2 of Essays: Chapter 7, Essay #12 is based on the writings of what philosopher?

4. What type of argument does Montaigne make regarding the book that he discusses in Book 2 of Essays: Chapter 7, Essay #12?

5. Montaigne specifically suggests that mastering what desire is a good example of virtue?

Short Essay Questions

1. What important contribution did Gutenburg make?

2. Why does Montaigne discuss swaddling clothes?

3. What was the cause of most religious wars in Europe in Montaigne's time?

4. What problem does Henry, the duke of Normandy, experience in one of Montaigne's stories?

5. What does Montaigne say about the difference between a man and an animal.

6. What method does Montaigne use to discuss Sebond's work?

7. How does Montaigne suggest that virtue is different from kindliness?

8. What decision does the soldier have to make in Book 1 of Essays: Chapter 2, Essay #3?

9. What does Montaigne say about marriage near the end of Book 2 of Essays: Chapter 5?

10. What is the purpose of this book, according to Montaigne?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Protestant Revolution was a major event still in its development in Europe in Montaigne's time. Leaders like Martin Luther and John Calvin sparked a revolution in religion that led to numerous civil and religious wars.

1) Explain the origins of the protestant revolution as explained by Montaigne, including its leaders, major philosophical and religious works, and its ideological basis.

2) Discuss Montaigne's opinion about the spread of protestant ideas and the subject of censorship.

3) Describe some of the impacts that the ongoing protestant revolution had on Europe in Montaigne's time, including the frequent religious wars and internal strife that it caused. What effects did these event have on Montaigne?

Essay Topic 2

The city of Rome in Montaigne's time was exceptionally large and popular as a destination for pilgrims and travelers like Montaigne, who writes at length about the great city.

1) Explain Rome's importance in medieval Europe as a center for religion, commerce, and travel.

2) Discuss Montaigne's expectations for Rome, and the reasons he had for going there. What sites did Montaigne look forward to seeing, and what do these interests say about the culture of the time?

3) Describe the city as shown in Montaigne's journals. How did it match or differ from his expectations, and in what major ways was he disappointed or surprised? Make an assessment of the nature of the city as a whole.

Essay Topic 3

The issue of parenting is very important to Montaigne, and his views on the subject are surprisingly modern. He has a great deal to say about proper methods of parenting, especially from the perspective of the father.

1) Explain the role does Montaigne believe a father should fill in a child's life, including his duties and responsibilities.

2) Discuss Montaigne's assessment of the importance of parental affection. How much attention does Montaigne recommend, and why does he believe this topic to be of particular importance?

3) Discuss Montaigne's stance on the issue of discipline and punishment for children. Why does he recommend against the use of physical punishment?

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