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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How does Eryximachus describe Polyhymnia?
(a) Cunning.
(b) Manipulative.
(c) Misunderstood.
(d) Vulgar.

2. What princess does Phaedrus use as an example for a sacrifice made out of Love?
(a) Europe.
(b) Alcestis.
(c) Ariadne.
(d) Cassandra.

3. As explained by Phaedrus, how does Orpheus die as a result of his cowardice?
(a) He is beaten with clubs.
(b) He is thrown off of a cliff.
(c) He is dragged through the streets.
(d) At the hands of women.

4. Which country does Pausanius use as an example of barbarian laws?
(a) Armolia.
(b) Ionia.
(c) Olympi.
(d) Lithio.

5. In Aristophanes' opinion, how are humans originally shaped?
(a) They are the same shape as they are now.
(b) They are square.
(c) They are round.
(d) They have no definite shape.

Short Answer Questions

1. In Pausanius' view, who is the father of the youngest goddess of love?

2. What is the purpose of Aristophanes' speech, as he indicates after it is finished?

3. Who firsts requests drinking in moderation at the party?

4. What does Eryximachus believe to be the source of pestilence and destruction in nature?

5. What is Socrates doing while the other guests are eating dinner at Agathon's house?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Orpheus become an example used by Phaedrus to depict what not to do?

2. What advice does Eryximachus have for Aristophanes before he starts speaking?

3. How is Aristodemus' dilemma resolved when he and Socrates arrive at the party?

4. Who are the parents of love, according to Pausanias?

5. In Aristophanes' opinion, what other changes do the gods make to humans, and what is the reason for the changes?

6. What is the purpose of love, according to Eryximachus?

7. How does Socrates first appear when he is introduced in the Symposium?

8. What effect does love have on nature and the seasons, as mentioned in the end of Eryximachus' speech?

9. How is the story of the Symposium introduced and who is responsible for telling it?

10. How is the subject of the speeches at the Symposium decided?

(see the answer keys)

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