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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. When does the war against the Normans end according to the start of Book VI?

2. Who does Alexius call to help him against Robert?

3. What war does Book IV introduce?

4. How is Alexius crowned emperor according to Anna?

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

Short Essay Questions

1. Who were the Paulicians and what happened during their suppression?

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

3. Who was Tzachas, as introduced in Book VII?

4. At the end of Book V, what happened to the heretic when Alexius returned home?

5. What problems arise with the Ducas family at the beginning of Book III?

6. What is celebrated at the end of Book VI?

7. What happens to the night ambush Alexius planned in Book IV?

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

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

10. What does Alexius realize about Robert in Book V?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In "The Alexiad", the Church played an important role and had authority to question Alexius over certain wrongdoing or poor behavior. In an essay, examine the role the church played, including priests and the pope, in the Byzantine Empire and in "The Alexiad".

Essay Topic 2

"The Alexiad" focuses heavily on alliances established to help provide funding for wars, troops, ships and other means of fighting the enemy. In an essay, discuss the importance of establishing alliances and give examples of how these alliances benefit those involved. Students should use examples from the book to support their discussion.

Essay Topic 3

In an essay, discuss and define the importance of succession, including the succession in a lineage when pursuing the throne. Use the book and secondary sources as needed to support your discussion.

(see the answer keys)

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