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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. For what is the stealing of the pear a metaphor?

2. Though Augustine is proficient in learning the sciences and philosophy of his time what is he unable to formulate?

3. To whom was the book he lost dedicated?

4. How does Augustine see Christianity as being deficient?

5. How does Augustine later view the Manichean myths?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Augustine fear about the effect of studying pagan myths when he was young?

2. What happens with Augustine and the Manicheans and why?

3. What did Augustine wonder about in relationship to God and the world and what are a couple of the questions he asked?

4. What intensifies as Augustine grows into a young man and of what type of behavior does he indulge?

5. What does Augustine believe about the men in the Bible and how does he apply that to people in general?

6. What kind of pressure does Augustine feel as a young person and what does he do about it?

7. How does Augustine feel about the Christianity he comes in contact with and what does he observe about the morals of Christians?

8. What gives Augustine an excuse to continue following his baser desires?

9. What does Augustine say is the difference between how the simple-minded and intellectuals read and understand the Scriptures?

10. As a young man how does Augustine feel about love and what doesn't he understand about it?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Though Augustine admits that he benefited from his studies of Latin and Greek literature, he resents how he was led astray morally by some of the stories. When he read of Zeus engaging in fornication and being powerful, it also made him want to do these deeds. So, already in boyhood, Augustine sees the struggle to form his moral judgment and not be led astray by popular stories or opinion.

1. Do you agree with Augustine's assertion about the influence the Greek and Latin literature had on his behavior? Why or why not?

2. In today's society there are people who assert that reading books about violent acts cause people to commit violent acts. Do you agree with this idea? Why or why not?

3. How do you think this idea of Augustine's about being led astray has influenced the justice system of the western world?

Essay Topic 2

In Book III, Augustine wonders on the lack of even the basic morality of observance of the Ten Commandments in his vicinity.

1. Of what do you think Augustine believes basic morality consists? Give examples from the text and your personal experience.

2. Do you think Augustine sees a lack of morals because he himself suffers from that lack? In other words, is Augustine projecting his own lack of morals on those around him? Why or why not?

3. Research the ten commandments and choose the two you think Augustine has the most difficulty at this point in his life keeping. What are they? Give examples to demonstrate why you think he does not keep those commandments.

Essay Topic 3

Augustine's struggles for self-development intensify as he reaches young manhood. He is sunk into sin and lustful behavior. This is the turning point in Augustine's narrative, since it sets up the conflict that will follow and must be resolved by him.

1. What do you think this statement (He is sunk into sin and lustful behavior) means? Use examples from the book to support your answer.

2. Discuss what you believe Augustine's conflict was that he had to resolve.

3. Do you believe Augustine's behavior as a young man would be viewed in the same way in today's world? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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