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

Short Answer Questions

1. After questioning Polia, Gordianus and Tiro stop at a tavern. Gordianus_______________.

2. Who is Sextus Roscius's (pater) oldest and dearest friend?

3. At Cicero's home, whom does Gordianus meet?

4. When Cicero asks Gordianus the question in his library, what does Gordianus think of him then?

5. Eco communicates that the man who stabbed Roscius has what distinguishing characteristic?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why would the shopkeeper and his wife lie about witnessing the attack of Roscius?

2. Why does Gordianus loan Bethesda to the household of the stable master?

3. Why does Cicero send Tiro instead of a lesser slave to the home of Gordianus?

4. Do you think Gauis's death was accidental or a murder? Why?

5. If traveling to Ameria alone is so dangerous, why doesn't Gordianus take a companion or a guard?

6. Who do you think is smarter: Gordianus or Cicero? Why?

7. Why does Bethesda bite Gordianus when he comes into her room?

8. Describe your first impression of Gordianus.

9. Why does Gordianus mention the fog at the end of Chapter 15?

10. Explain why Caecilia would house Sextus Roscius (filius) in an unsavory part of her house, near the stinking indoor toilets.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Rufus and Tiro are both very young men, Rufus not even fully a man yet. What would you say these two young men represent?

Essay Topic 2

Sexuality in Roman society seems to have been very open, and openly discussed and viewed. Discuss some of the episodes in which sexuality is important or comes into play, especially where it actively impacts the plot.

Essay Topic 3

At the end of the novel, Cicero tells Gordianus, "Crime is common. Honor is rare." Discuss that comment.

(see the answer keys)

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