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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. Where does Pausanius think the laws are perplexing?

2. Why do humans walk upright, according to Aristophanes?

3. How does Eryximachus define symphony?

4. How does Eryximachus define astronomy?

5. What are the doors like when Aristodemus reaches Agathon's house?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. As Eryximachus explains, what is the role of a doctor in healing a patient?

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

4. What are the different types of the creatures that Aristophanes speaks about?

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

6. How is music used by Eryximachus as a metaphor for love?

7. How does Phaedrus use Alcestis' story as an example in his speech?

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

9. What is the description of the creature that Aristophanes gives at the beginning of his speech?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Compare and contrast the different speeches given at the Symposium.

1) Analyze the similarities between Socrates' speech and Eryximachus' speech as well as what the main difference was between the two.

2) Explain which speeches had the most differences and why.

3) Describe the speech or speeches that you think made the most sense and/or contained the most important information.

Essay Topic 2

Describe the origin of love and the events leading up to it as they are outlined in the speech given by Socrates. Also, provide an analysis of Socrates' opinions on the resilience of love and how it is a reflection of both of its parents.

Essay Topic 3

Explain the possible controversy of Pausanias' speech as it might be interpreted today by detailing his views on relationships and the laws that govern them. Include an analysis of the differences in time period, why Pausanias might have made this type of speech, and whether the practices he endorses are acceptable.

(see the answer keys)

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