View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Seneca, if one begins taking lessons other than philosophy, what happens?

2. According to Seneca, who will spend his time either alone or in the company of those he knows are capable of improving him?

3. What kind of ailments does Seneca say are not as obvious as they worsen?

4. How does noise affect Seneca's ability to study?

5. How does Seneca say a wise man should act toward the festival celebrated in Letter XVII?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Seneca confide to Lucilius about his own vices?

2. As Seneca comforts Lucilius at the loss of his friend, he says grief has a purpose. What is that purpose and how should a wise Stoic man deal with the death of a friend?

3. Why didn't the Stoics write a lot of quotable quotes for students to memorize? What is his opinion about quotable quotes?

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

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

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

7. What does Seneca say about developing friendships?

8. What is Seneca's theory on slavery?

9. What is the difference between physical and spiritual ailments, according the Seneca's seasick boat trip example?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the Stoic view of death and what happens after death.

Essay Topic 2

Define and discuss "apatheia."

Essay Topic 3

What is an aphorism and what is Seneca's opinion of them? What is his response to Lucilius when he requests aphorisms?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 835 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample