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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. What finally happens to Tiberius's body?

2. Where did Tiberius live once he left Rome?

3. What does Claudius suspect happened to Drusilla?

4. Caligula amuses the populace by using what class of people as sword-fighters?

5. What was the biggest obstacle to the plot to assassinate Caligula?

Short Essay Questions

1. What makes Germanicus happy about being appointed to oversee the eastern provinces?

2. How does a lizard foretell Tiberius's death?

3. What does Claudius hope will happen once Caligula announces his new status as a God?

4. How does Calpurnia help Claudius avoid being tried for treason during Caligula's reign?

5. What does Caligula tell Livia as she is dying?

6. Who does Germanicus accuse of murdering him?

7. How does Claudius assist in preparing the case against Piso?

8. What metaphor does Claudius use to describe Tiberius's rule?

9. Why does Claudius advise Agrippina to make friends with Nerva and Vipsania?

10. Who are the only male Claudians left by the time Tiberius dies?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Claudius divides his family into "good" Claudians and "bad" Claudians. What drove the "bad" Claudians? Write a paper addressing the question: Did madness run in the Claudian family?

Essay Topic 2

Of the three emperors shown in this novel, the progression goes from good to bad to horrible. Was this related to the power that grew from one emperor to another? Write an essay addressing the role that unchecked power plays in the corruption of a ruler.

Essay Topic 3

Compare the Roman Republic to another democratic system, either the United States government, or the British Parliamentary system, or another of your choosing.

(see the answer keys)

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