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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What changes in himself does the grand inquisitor confess?
(a) He thought Jesus was wrong.
(b) He once believed in Jesus' teachings.
(c) He used to want power over all.
(d) He used to be an atheist.

2. Why does the cardinal say the people would respect Jesus' power if he fed them?
(a) The would respect his kindness.
(b) They would be afraid he would stop.
(c) They would appriciate his love.
(d) They would be awed by his ability.

3. Describe Alyosha's reaction to Ivan's tale.
(a) He is bored by the long story.
(b) He wants to know more.
(c) He agrees wholeheartedly.
(d) He questions Ivan's poem as absurd.

4. What does Alyosha accuse Ivan of lacking?
(a) Belief in Jesus.
(b) Love.
(c) Attention to the truth.
(d) Suffering.

5. What does the inquisitor predict the church will do when it achieves supreme authority?
(a) Finally understand Jesus temptation.
(b) Make greater questions than those that tempted Jesus.
(c) Eliminate all misery.
(d) Give freedom to all.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is the significance of the Tower of Babel?

2. What does Alyosha think the Inquisition's secret aim is?

3. Who will continue to suffer if the church becomes all powerful?

4. What doesn't Alyosha believe?

5. According to the grand inquisitor, what is the difference about how the church and Jesus implement their philosophy?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does the grand inquisitor think men fear freedom?

2. How is the church giving people their freedom?

3. Who does the church follow instead of Jesus?

4. What does Alyosha agree about Ivan's story?

5. Why does Jesus deserve to be burned at the stake, according to the grand inquisitor?

6. How will the church finish the Tower of Babel that man has built?

7. What similarity is drawn about Catholics and Masons?

8. According to the grand inquisitor, what would have happened if Jesus had changed the stones into bread?

9. Why does the grand inquisitor say the clergy will suffer?

10. What was the third temptation of Jesus by the spirit in the wilderness?

(see the answer keys)

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