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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. At this time, Galileo's health was poor. It was recommended that while in Rome, Galileo should stay ___________.

2. What emotion did Galileo experience because of the departure?

3. Maria Celeste tended to write long letters to Galileo on which day of the week?

4. By this time Mrs. Niccolini had earned the title of __________.

5. What is the name of the Pope's office?

Short Essay Questions

1. Galileo began to work on a book involving the theories of motion. Discuss the concept for the book and its relationship to Aristotle's earlier teachings.

2. While the Catholics had their opinions on why Galileo was tried, the anti-Catholics also had an opinion. What was the opinion of the anti-Catholics?

3. The illness prevented Maria Celeste from doing two very important things. What were they? What was the result?

4. By this time Galileo had become blind in one eye and was plagued with poor vision in the other. How did Galileo manage to work with this affliction?

5. What was the plea sent from Niccolini to the Poe on behalf of Galileo?

6. How did Maria Celeste's death take its toll on Galileo?

7. Who was not present at the interview? Why?

8. What was Galileo's hope regarding the outcome of the trial. Did Galileo's wish come true?

9. What steps might have been taken by Pope Urban on behalf of Galileo? Why do you think Pope Urban chose not to take that step?

10. What is one of the major errors regarding the story of Galileo's trial? What do you think may have caused the mistake?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Galileo's trial forbade him from working on certain projects so that he could stay out of prison. Explain the arrangement with the Church. Do you think Galileo agreed because he felt he had no choice or because it was in his best interest? Do you think Galileo compromised himself or his work by agreeing to stop working and teaching? Did Galileo keep his word?

Essay Topic 2

Describe the relationship between Galileo and Marina Gamba. Why was the couple never married? Were there class or religious barriers that might have prevented a marriage? Explain. How did the families feel about the relationship? Was that type of relationship unusual at the time? What was the opinion of the Church on the relationship? How did it affect the children? Did the relationship affect Galileo's career?

Essay Topic 3

Describe in detail the life of the nuns at San Matteo. How does the convent compare with today's convents? Is the order still in existence? If so, where? What influence did Maria Celeste have on the convent? Compare and contrast the views and experiences of the sisters.

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