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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 how long does Esca say he has been a slave in Chapter 6?

2. What is an oculist?

3. What is Cradoc's profession?

4. What is the name of the Surgeon of Marcus's garrison that tends to him in Chapter 4?

5. What does the word "cockcrow" (44) refer to in Chapter 4?

Short Essay Questions

1. Where is Marcus being tended to in Chapter 4? By whom is he being care for?

2. What happens when the chariots attack in Chapter 3?

3. What does Placidus suggest as a reason for the disappearance of the Ninth Legion?

4. How is Marcus's surgery described in Chapter 8?

5. When and where is The Eagle of the Ninth set?

6. What rumor regarding the Eagle does the Legate describe in Chapter 10?

7. What two stories inspired the author to write The Eagle of the Ninth, according to her Prologue?

8. How is Cottia described when her character is first introduced?

9. How is Uncle Aquila described?

10. What does the rose in the wine jar symbolize?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Analyze and discuss the character of Uncle Aquila in the novel. How old is Uncle Aquila? Why had Marcus never met his uncle until now? Where does Uncle Aquila live? How would you describe his demeanor? How does he contribute to the plot?

Essay Topic 2

How do Marcus and Esca manage to enter into the lands of the North and to pass through them? What disguise does Marcus don? What additional preparations are made?

Essay Topic 3

In The Eagle of the Ninth, Marcus struggles with both his sense of identity and his sense of belonging. Discuss ways that the author expands upon this theme in the novel. Who else seeks belonging and security in their identity? What symbolism and imagery relate to these themes?

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