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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. What happens when people realize Alexius survived battle with Robert?

2. What emperor sent Alexius to fight in eastern provinces?

3. Who is considered to take over the throne before Alexius according to Anna?

4. Who became Patriarch under Alexius?

5. What does Tatus bring to the fight against the Scythians?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the conflict over choosing the Emperor?

2. What is the significance of the adoption discussed in Book II?

3. What does Anna believe about her fortune and why?

4. In Book V, what ancient law did Alexius examine and who acted in opposition?

5. At the end of Book VII, what plot does Alexius hear of?

6. How does Alexius drive Byrennius out of Castoria at the beginning of Book VI?

7. What does Alexius discover on his way back to Constantinople and what does Alexius do as a result?

8. What was the role of the Comans in Book VII?

9. What happened to Paleaologus during one of the battles described in Book IV?

10. According to the Preface of "The Alexiad", what is the purpose of the book?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

"The Alexiad" has several heretic or heretical groups, including the Paulicians, John Italus, and others. In an essay, compare two of the heretical groups discussed in "The Alexiad", focusing on their beliefs and the application of these beliefs, as well as how these heretical groups are suppressed by Alexius. Use the text to support your discussion.

Essay Topic 2

Two major wars, including that with the Scythians and the Normans are described in detail in "The Alexiad". In an essay, compare the two wars and determine which war had the most pure of goals and the best outcome.

Essay Topic 3

"The Alexiad", written by Anna Comnena, was focused on the life of Alexius, her father. The book details his actions and decisions from his time as a war general to that of an emperor. In an essay, discuss Alexius' death and what kind of an impact it had on the Byzantine Empire. Use secondary sources to support your discussion.

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