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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. Rufus learns that ___________________ was the one who bought the Roscius estate at auction.

2. What happens to Gordianus and Tiro as they are leaving Chrysogonus's house?

3. Titus Megarus and other landowners tried to petition Sulla to do what?

4. Who are Magnus and Capito?

5. What did Gordianus figure out from the two attacks on his house?

Short Essay Questions

1. Carus remarks "And if Sextus Roscius (filius) was a terrible father to his daughters, what business was that of mine?" What does Gordianus make of that?

2. What makes Carus a credible informant?

3. How does Roscia's confession affect Tiro?

4. When Gordianus returns to Rome, he once again talks with Roscius (filius). What does he find out?

5. At the Bleating Lamb, what are some of the pieces of information that Gordianus learns from the tavern owner?

6. Titus Megarus confirms what suspicions of Gordianus?

7. On the second visit to Carus, what does Gordianus find out?

8. Chapters 16-26 are in a section called Portents. What does that signify?

9. What does Gordianus find out about Roscia that impacts him greatly?

10. How does Gordianus convince Rufus to attend the party in honor of Sulla?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

As information begins to accumulate in the Portents section of the novel, Cicero realizes he is in a very hard spot. Examine his predicament and his options.

Essay Topic 2

What are the advantages and disadvantages of having Gordianus as the narrator of this book?

Essay Topic 3

What purpose does the story of Crassus and his pursuit of property serve in this novel?

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This section contains 770 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample