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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. At his coronation, Julian takes action that is strictly forbidden: He:

2. Oribasius eventually becomes:

3. During his time in Athens, Julian is able to go to the baths alone one morning because:

4. Julian learns that Constantius dies when a messenger addresses his as:

5. Julian's attitude towards battle is:

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. Julian insists that his brother is led astray by Constantia. Do you think this is true? What evidence can you cite to support your answer?

4. In Chapter V, Julian has a religious experience that has a great impact on his life. Explain.

5. Why is it appropriate that Libanius and Priscus discuss things like their health and families as well as their memories of Julian and opinions about the current rulers of the land in the first chapter of this book?

6. Why is Priscus reluctant to be involved with the writing/publishing of the Julian manuscript?

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

8. 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?

9. Julian meets Macrina and her uncle, Prohaeresius, while he is in Athens. What role do these two individuals play in Julian's life?

10. Julian often claims that he dislikes the ritual, etiquette and intrigue of the royal court, that he does not seek to acquire rank or power, and that he longs only to become a scholar. Do you think this is true? Give evidence for your answer/

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Hellenism involves the practice of ritual sacrifice as a way of acknowledging, appeasing, thanking or honoring the powers that be. Do some research on the practice of ritual sacrifice as it is practiced in Hellenism and also as it occurs in other cultures/religions. What purpose does sacrifice serve in Julian's mind? What does this aspect of Hellenism reveal about Julian and about his faith?

Essay Topic 2

Explore the evolution of Julian's feelings about Christianity. Why do you think his attitude changes and becomes so negative? Is there anything else going on within him or around him that would influence him to become anti-Christian?

Essay Topic 3

When Julian realizes that he loses the support of his beloved deities, it is a crucial turning point for him. How does this change him as a man and as a leader? What do you think goes through his mind about religion and about his life-long efforts to praise, honor and elevate the deities?

(see the answer keys)

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