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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 in Letter XXXIII, what does Stoic writing generally lack?
(a) Grammatical errors.
(b) Punctuation.
(c) Use of Latin.
(d) Quotable quotes.

2. According to Seneca, what are people who are easily disturbed by noises lacking?
(a) Ear plugs.
(b) Common sense.
(c) Peace.
(d) Religion.

3. What holiday is celebrated at the time Letter XVII is written?
(a) Cinco de Mayo.
(b) Saturnalia.
(c) Festival of Bacchus.
(d) Ides of March.

4. What does Seneca say in Letter XVI is of no interest to the wise man?
(a) Investing in gold.
(b) Playing a role in public service.
(c) Having more than the basic needs.
(d) Having a political seat of power.

5. 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 diversifies his talents.
(c) He becomes known as a Renaissance Man.
(d) He becomes a well-rounded man.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Seneca as he comforts Lucilius, what is the death of a friend a reminder to do?

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

3. In what kind of atmosphere does Seneca say in Lesson VLI that he prefers to study?

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

5. Which word is the best meaning of apatheia?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Seneca say about the study of philosophy?

2. In Letter II, how does Seneca advise Lucilius to proceed with his study of philosophy?

3. What does Seneca tell Lucilius about the pace of speech?

4. According to Seneca, how should a wise man deal with grief itself?

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

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

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

8. What does Seneca say the unphilosophical life lacks and what does it have? Why is the life of a philosopher better?

9. What is a sedan chair and why does Seneca use one occasionally?

10. How does Seneca explain how he partakes of the festivities of Saturnalia?

(see the answer keys)

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