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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. There is a battle on the plain west of Antirhion. Who do the Spartans fight there?

2. How does Xeones describe Dienekes?

3. What does the Egyptian tell the Spartans about the Persian invasion?

4. What is Xeones trying to steal when he is caught?

5. Who is Xeones' sparring partner?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Xeones begin his story?

2. Describe the training exercise at the Oaks.

3. Why does the author jump from place to place in the story?

4. Why does Diomache feel that no one will want to marry her?

5. What is the outcome of the battle?

6. Describe the relationship between Alexandros and Xeones.

7. Why is Xeones depressed? What happens?

8. How do Alexandros and Xeones get across the Gulf of Corinth when following the army?

9. What is a helot?

10. How do the Spartans count their dead?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

After seeing what losses he takes fighting the Spartans, Xerxes almost leaves Greece and abandons his campaign. How is he persuaded to remain? What emotion drives him to stay? Is Xerxes in control of his own emotions here? Explain your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Throughout the book, Xeones describes several things that are common to ancient warfare, such as smoke and fire, rape, and the mutilation of the enemy dead. What other factors are common to ancient warfare? Why do these things occur in ancient times? Do they still happen today? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

The preferred style of combat for the Spartans is the heavy infantry phalanx. Answer the following questions about the Spartan phalanx:

1. Describe the structure of the phalanx.

2. What role does discipline play in the successful phalanx?

3. What role does cohesive teamwork play in the successful phalanx?

4. What strengths and weaknesses does the phalanx have?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 873 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample