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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 court does Alexius appear before?

2. What family helped Alexius secure the right of the throne over his brother Isaac?

3. What is Tzelgu's fate according to Anna?

4. Who opposes the means Alexius found to raise money?

5. What does Pope Gregory VII accuse the one he had a dispute with of?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What does Anna note about the state of Rome?

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

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

5. What did Anna the Elder do for the Empire?

6. What about Robert frightens Alexius?

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

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

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

10. What occurred at the synod held before Cosmas stepped down?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

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 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.

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