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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Republic: Book VI.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How are leaders chosen in Socrates' ideal republic?
(a) They would be elected by the common men.
(b) They would all be the soldiers in training who appeared to love their city more than most.
(c) The richest members of the republic will lead it.
(d) Every citizen would have equal access to political power.

2. How does Thrasymachus first define justice?
(a) "Making laws to one's own disadvantage."
(b) "Acting selflessly, so that the kingdom may prosper."
(c) "Nothing other than the advantage of the stronger."
(d) "Being impartial and unbiased in all decisions."

3. What analogies does Socrates employ to refute Thrasymachus' position on justice?
(a) He compares the skill of a leader to the respective skills of a doctor, house-builder, and sailor.
(b) He compares democracy to dictatorship and aristocracy.
(c) He compares justice to food, both nourishing the soul.
(d) He compares a money-maker to a philosopher and a clergyman.

4. What poet is cited by Cephalus to explain the paradox of old age?
(a) Shakespeare.
(b) Pindar.
(c) Homer.
(d) Petrach.

5. Socrates argues that the philosopher __________.
(a) Is quick-witted and knows how to get what he wants.
(b) Does not take kindly to dissent.
(c) Takes pleasure in knowledge, has a good memory, and is a virtuous person.
(d) Is idle only in body, but not in mind.

Short Answer Questions

1. In Book V, Socrates admits which of the following about his republic?

2. To illustrate one facet of his argument, Socrates employs the help of which character?

3. Socrates explains that the common man sees the philosopher as useless because_________.

4. According to Socrates, woman can____________.

5. Why would candidates for a philosopher-king class in the republic be tested?

(see the answer key)

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