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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. Julian attempts to maintain positive relations with Constantius by all of the following except:

2. Julian believes that Constantius sets him up to fail in Gaul because:

3. Julian believes that his fate is being foretold when he dreams about:

4. How does Julian react to Gallus' treatment of Hilarius?

5. The person Julian calls "the Galilean" is:

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Julian's initiation into the mysteries of Eleusis. Who initiates him and what are some of the initiation rites?

2. What happens to Julian when he returns to Rome? What do you think drives Constantius to do what he does to Julian?

3. After a few weeks in Athens, Julian is recalled to Italy by his cousin, Augustus Constantius. What is his reaction to being recalled? Why? Why does he think Constantius may be out to get him at this point?

4. Describe Gallus' feelings toward his brother Julian.

5. Julian is gaining confidence and developing skill as a military leader. Cite evidence or his military skills and success at about this time (356-358).

6. Gallus and Julian have an affair with the same woman, a servant in their household, at the same time. What do you think this says about the two boys?

7. Gallus and his wife, Constantia, appear to be cut from the same cloth. What do you learn about them and their tastes and habits?

8. Julian's first meeting with Constantius gives him a taste of the power and might of royalty. How does he react to this taste of power?

9. What do the letters of Priscus and Libanius reveal about the culture and customs that exist in Rome at the time of their correspondence?

10. As a youngster, Julian expresses awareness of his own mortality and even fear for his life. Why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Julian is searching to establish his identity, but circumstances force him to grow up quickly and make some tough choices. Discuss Julian's 'coming of age.' How do his experiences while growing into manhood shape him as a man and as a ruler?

Essay Topic 2

Julian enjoys his 47 days in Athens immensely. Why does Athens appeal to Julian? What does it represent to him? Explain the significance of this period in Julian's life.

Essay Topic 3

Several differing points of view are presented in the story of Julian. Julian, Libanius and Priscus serve as narrators at various times in the story and they see some events differently. Compare and contrast their points of view. Why does the author include differing points of view? How does this contribute to the texture of the story? Which point of view represents the truth or the most accurate historical perspective?

(see the answer keys)

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