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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. Why does Botaniates renounce his claim to the throne?

2. What plan does some of Alexius' counsel try to dissuade him of?

3. How long does the war introduced in Book IV last?

4. What military advantage does Robert have?

5. What do the Scythians attack after being driven off by Alexius?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Alexius do when distributing titles?

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

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

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

5. What happens between the Scythians and Alexius at the beginning of Book VII?

6. What is the conflict over choosing the Emperor?

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

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

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Anna Comnena applauds her parents and their relationship in "The Alexiad". In an essay, analyze their role in the author's life and conclude whether you think this praise is deserved. Use examples from the text and secondary sources 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

Anna Comnena was a well educated woman for her time. In an essay, discuss her upbringing and how it affected her writing "The Alexiad".

(see the answer keys)

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