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This test consists of 15 multiple choice questions and 5 short answer questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Socrates wants to learn the _____ of rhetoric.
(a) Art.
(b) Tool.
(c) Skill.
(d) Myth.

2. Gorgias believes the ability to do what has the most possibility for the greatest good?
(a) Comprehend.
(b) Relate.
(c) Persuade.
(d) Educate.

3. Why does Socrates regard rhetoric as a dangerous tool?
(a) Because it only gives the appearance of being knowledgeable.
(b) Because rhetoric is a guise for something sinister.
(c) Because so few hold the ability.
(d) Because rhetoricians are too well respected.

4. What is Polus meant to be an example of?
(a) How to argue with Socrates.
(b) The effects of a corrupt government.
(c) The ignorance of youth.
(d) The negative effects of freedom.

5. Gorgias believes that without mastering rhetoric, what is the occurrence of rhetoric left to?
(a) Politicians.
(b) Genetics.
(c) God.
(d) Chance.

6. According to Socrates, what do politics preside over?
(a) Emotions.
(b) Soul.
(c) Beliefs.
(d) Body.

7. What does the discussion of rhetoric between Gorgias and Socrates turn into?
(a) Sentimental rant.
(b) Nostalgic exchange.
(c) Argument.
(d) Comedic exchange.

8. Why does Socrates regard Gorgias' answers as useful?
(a) Because he is well educated.
(b) Because he understands rhetoric now.
(c) Because they are precise.
(d) Because they are unique.

9. What challenge is Gorgias being faced with?
(a) Keeping business and personal matters separate.
(b) Responding to anything that is asked.
(c) Having to convince a great philosopher.
(d) Convincing the men to follow a religion.

10. What is the key way in which skills are mastered, in Gorgias' opinion?
(a) Observation.
(b) Gaining experience.
(c) Extreme practice.
(d) Reading.

11. Socrates believes that what is good while ugly can be delimited by what?
(a) Experience.
(b) Pain.
(c) Pleasures.
(d) Politics.

12. What does Gorgias specify sciences also involve?
(a) Religion.
(b) Art.
(c) Words.
(d) Courage.

13. Socrates regards rhetoric as a skill that elicits what?
(a) Knowledge.
(b) Grandiosity.
(c) Anger.
(d) Gratification.

14. Why does Socrates have a low regard for Sophists?
(a) They actively harm.
(b) They have little influence.
(c) They are not concerned with justice.
(d) They are too afraid of knowledge.

15. What does Gorgias intend to use rhetoric for?
(a) To frighten criminals.
(b) To speak and comprehend.
(c) To educate.
(d) To manipulate a crowd.

Short Answer Questions

1. In Socrates' opinion, why are just actions better than unjust?

2. Why does Socrates regard Polus' responses as useless?

3. What does Gorgias describe gaining knowledge as involving?

4. What description of rhetoric is Gorgias supposed to provide?

5. What kind of a result does Socrates believe any action taken must intend to elicit?

(see the answer keys)

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