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This test consists of 15 multiple choice questions and 5 short answer questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How did Seneca's ancestors treat their slaves?
(a) With respect.
(b) Emotionless.
(c) With physical abuse.
(d) With mental torture.

2. How does Seneca say all people -- young and old alike -- should live each day?
(a) As if it is their first.
(b) Without much physical activity or worry.
(c) Safely.
(d) As if it is their last.

3. What virtue does Seneca say does not perish or disappoint?
(a) Fortune.
(b) Wisdom.
(c) Kindness.
(d) Beauty.

4. Who advises that one ought to imagine being watched by some great, virtuous figure at all times in order to check one's own behavior?
(a) Aristotle.
(b) Epicurius.
(c) Plato.
(d) Seneca.

5. What does Seneca say is the worst noise of all?
(a) Crashes.
(b) Insects.
(c) Music.
(d) Voices.

6. Who does Seneca praise in Letter XI?
(a) Lucilius himself.
(b) Lucilius' friend.
(c) Lucilius' father.
(d) Lucilius' ancestors.

7. While looking for witty entertainment, what does Seneca stumble upon?
(a) A poetry reading.
(b) A comedian telling jokes.
(c) A musical production.
(d) A gladiator battle.

8. What is the specific distraction Seneca discusses in Letter XL?
(a) Talking too fast or too slow.
(b) Alcohol and food.
(c) Company with the opposite sex.
(d) Long hair.

9. According to Seneca, what creates anxiety?
(a) Demanding family members.
(b) Having to find a stable job.
(c) Striving to fulfill one's ever-expanding desires.
(d) Having to worry about finances.

10. What, according to Seneca, generally presents more opportunity to be tempted away from virtuous living?
(a) Theater.
(b) Mass crowds.
(c) Public hangings.
(d) Religion.

11. Which word is the best meaning of apatheia?
(a) Pathetic.
(b) Invulnerable.
(c) Apathetic.
(d) Humble.

12. What topic does Seneca discuss in Letter XL?
(a) Money.
(b) Love.
(c) Speech.
(d) Death.

13. According to Seneca, if one begins taking lessons other than philosophy, what happens?
(a) His life will be governed by that subject rather than philosophy.
(b) He becomes known as a Renaissance Man.
(c) He becomes a well-rounded man.
(d) He diversifies his talents.

14. How does Seneca say a wise man should act toward the festival celebrated in Letter XVII?
(a) Should abstain from drinking, but over eat.
(b) Should avoid excess, but participate.
(c) Should avoid it all together, stay away.
(d) Should enjoy all to its fullest.

15. What is the topic of Letter III?
(a) Greed.
(b) Investing.
(c) Money.
(d) Friendship.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Seneca, what is man's only pride?

2. Seneca states that a virtuous man is not concerned with the loss of a friend because:

3. In Letter VII, what does Lucilius accuse Seneca of being?

4. What has earned Seneca fame and respect among the citizens of Rome?

5. Which philosopher does Seneca quote in Letter II despite the fact that he does not particularly like him?

(see the answer keys)

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