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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. If Augustine sets a standard for how to interpret Scriptural characters literally, and he applies the converse of that standard for interpreting Scriptural character's figuratively, how would that standard be articulated?
(a) A figurative interpretation of a holy Scriptural character will be applied to language and speech that embraces evil and condemns love or kindness.
(b) A figurative interpretation of a holy Scriptural character will be applied to language and speech that describes condemnations on the chosen of God.
(c) A figurative interpretation of a holy Scriptural character will be applied to language and speech that defines how a sign is a thing.
(d) A figurative interpretation of a holy Scriptural character will be applied to language and speech that embraces evil and condemns love or kindness.

2. How does Augustine say a student should treat any evil actions or speech from characters Scriptures praise as holy?
(a) As a blasphemy against God and the character's holiness must be considered as revoked by God.
(b) As an announcement from God of impending judgment.
(c) As figurative language.
(d) They must be treated as a poor interpretation and a study of the language and history of the passage must be examined.

3. What Augustine accomplished with his first three books from "On Christian Doctrine"?
(a) He set out an intimidating course of study that only the serious student of Scripture will be willing to consider.
(b) He identified the difference between his line of reasoning and those who criticize his views.
(c) He established a beginning set of exegetical principles.
(d) He left out important details that could be useful in the interpretation of Scripture.

4. How can recommendations Augustine makes from Book Three prevent students from falling into the trap that misleads them?
(a) Augustine warns against allowing the increased knowledge of students from developing into pride.
(b) Augustine recommends that students learn the culture, language, and history from the periods that Scripture was written to develop the skill to interpret Scripture intelligently.
(c) Augustine devotes much of Book Two to detailing the demands on the serious student of Scripture.
(d) Augustine painstakingly differentiates between signs and things to guide students away from misapplying both.

5. According to Augustine, of the different forms through which the grammar types show themselves, which is, by definition, the most difficult to interpret?
(a) The poem because it relies heavily on metaphor, hyperbole, and enigma.
(b) The catachresis because of its "misuse or strained use of words, as in a mixed metaphor, occurring either in error or for rhetorical effect."
(c) The sarcasm because it is often undetectable unless the intended tone of the writer is examined.
(d) The riddle because it often requires an answer that was even hidden in the day it was given.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Augustine in Book Two, in order for the student to become an effective teacher, what two skills must the student master?

2. 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?

3. By making the demands of understanding Scripture difficult, who was Augustine criticizing?

4. Into what two spheres does Augustine divide the natural knowledge needed for Scriptural interpretation?

5. According to Augustine, to whom are commands from Scripture intended?

(see the answer keys)

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