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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Book Three.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What are the two different ways a Scriptural passage can be considered, according to Book Three?
(a) They can be considered as details of things or details of signs.
(b) They can be considered culturally or historically.
(c) They can be considered figuratively or literally.
(d) They can be considered linguistically or grammatically.

2. What is an apparent contradiction regarding Augustine's expectation of students to interpretation and an omission from his commentaries in "On Christian Doctrine"?
(a) Augustine writes that the understanding of the principles of Christian love are sufficient to begin the interpretation of Scripture, but he spends more time examining Old Testament law.
(b) Augustine expects his students to investigate the intentions of the authors of Scripture, but he does not detail his intentions in choosing the issues on which he focuses.
(c) Augustine demands his students to spend time in seclusion and study, but does not call for the same from teachers.
(d) Augustine criticizes the Donatists yet he uses their theology on which to base "On Christian Doctrine."

3. According to Augustine in Book Three, what is a condition that affects holy men and God's commands of them?
(a) They discern the signs given by God that appear evil.
(b) They can commit great sins.
(c) They from Scripture became so because God had more direct communication with them.
(d) They have spent time studying God's law and know how to apply his harsh language within the context of His judgment.

4. By the end of Book Two, Augustine devoted much of this text to refuting critics who believe Scriptural interpretation comes simply. What does this infer of Augustine's methods of debate?
(a) Augustine confronts his critics with thorough investigation and lets his text prove his integrity.
(b) Augustine is obsessive and relentlessly badgers his critics into submission.
(c) Augustine chooses to overwhelm his critics with so much information that they lose track of their arguments.
(d) Augustine is personally offended with critics and chooses to punish those who most support him.

5. What is a requirement of Augustine's disciples?
(a) To identify signs and their role in Scriptural learning.
(b) To understand God's revelation.
(c) To use their "inner eye."
(d) To use their "special gift."

Short Answer Questions

1. What Scriptural passage does Augustine use to remind the reader of "On Christian Doctrine" of the condition that affects holy men?

2. What is the most important step Augustine's students must take to avoid the trap he sees in interpretation?

3. Why does Augustine expect the method of accessing knowledge he lacks to be successful?

4. What does Augustine state the student must do once the figurative and literal passages have been separated from each other?

5. Augustine writes in Book Three that in order to make the type of evaluation of the command given to the intended target, what knowledge must a student of Scripture possess?

(see the answer key)

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