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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. Cassius Chærea was disgusted when Caligula made him:

2. What does Antonia say that Caligula did to Drusilla?

3. How does Tiberius propose rewarding Sejanus for breaking the Leek Green party?

4. What happens to Nero's brother, Drusus?

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

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Livia so insistent on becoming a Goddess?

2. What letter does Livia read to Tiberius to keep him under control?

3. What does Messalina tell Claudius about becoming emperor?

4. Describe some of Caligula's methods for raising money.

5. Who does Germanicus accuse of murdering him?

6. What advice does Calpurnia give Claudius about his position in the palace?

7. What power does Livia still hold over Tiberius?

8. Why does Livia play up the rivalry between Sejanus and Castor to Tiberius?

9. How does Antonia discover the plot against Tiberius?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Contrast the Ancient Roman concept of life, death, and afterlife with our modern concepts.

Essay Topic 2

Contrast the Roman path to power with the American path. What does it take to be a successful person in Rome compared to what it takes in our country? Are the definitions of success the same in both cultures? If not, how do they differ?

Essay Topic 3

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.

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This section contains 556 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample