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

2. What is Cicero's client accused of?

3. Where do Gordianus, Cicero and Tiro finally meet Sextus Roscius (filius)?

4. Sextus Roscius (pater) was fond of _____________.

5. Gordianus finds a pool of blood and a bloody hand print near_________________.

Short Essay Questions

1. How would you describe Caecilia Metella?

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

3. Describe your first impression of Gordianus.

4. Electra tells Gordianus and Tiro that some men bought Elena. What else does she reveal?

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

6. In Chapter 5, Cicero says to Tiro, "A fit subject for debate: Is it possible that a slave can be too loyal to his master? That is to say, too enthusiastic in his devotion, too ready to spring to his master's defense." What is your answer to that question?

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

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

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

10. Cicero and Sextus Roscius (pater) lived very different lifestyles. Compare and contrast their lifestyles.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the various roles of women in Roman Blood, focusing on the characters of Bethesda, Caecelia, and Roscia in particular.

Essay Topic 3

Slaves play a prevalent role in Roman Blood. Examine the roles Tiro, Bethesda, and other slaves such as Felix and Chrestus or Carus play in this novel.

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