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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. According to Seneca, who doesn't care if he is rich or poor?
(a) A philosopher.
(b) A Christian priest.
(c) A pagan priest.
(d) A public official.

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

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

4. What is there little value in if one cannot share it with friends, according to Seneca?
(a) Learning.
(b) Money.
(c) Ceremonies.
(d) Gladiator battles.

5. Who, according to Seneca, retired out of fear of being persecuted by the Emperor?
(a) Himself.
(b) Lucilius.
(c) Vatia.
(d) Nero.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who says that hope is the cause of fear?

2. What is the topic of Letter III?

3. Who thinks they are the most virtuous people, according to Senenca?

4. Which of Lucilius' friends dies?

5. What kind of people does Seneca warn Lucilius to steer clear of in Letter XLVIII?

Short Essay Questions

1. Lucilius writes Seneca that his melancholy mood remained unchanged no matter how far he traveled from home. How does Seneca explain Lucilius' complaint?

2. What does Seneca say about developing friendships?

3. What happened when Seneca went out on the town in search of "witty entertainment" and how was he affected by the situation?

4. What is a "quibbler" and what advice does Seneca offer to Lucilius about quibblers?

5. Discuss the necessity of and the problem with diversions, according to Seneca.

6. What is Seneca's opinion of Vatia? How does it differ from public opinion?

7. What is the goal of philosophy, as stated by Seneca?

8. What is the difference between a Stoic and anyone else in regards to emotions?

9. When does Seneca say a master should correct his slaves? How should slaves be corrected and why?

10. What is the appeal of a slow death for Stoics? What does Seneca believe happens after death?

(see the answer keys)

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