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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 heretic does Anna open Book X with?

2. Who has Nilus cavorted with?

3. Who lays siege to numerous cities according to Anna in Book IX?

4. What does Tzachas lose after bringing some Turk troops to his side?

5. What are some of the Counts resisting?

Short Essay Questions

1. In Book XI, what are the Frankish troops doing?

2. What ends in Book VIII and what events led up to this culmination?

3. Why did Alexius' advisers try to dissuade him?

4. What happened between Tzachas and the Sultan in Book IX?

5. What plot is planned by the citizens of Antioch and Anemades?

6. What does Anna say about Alexius' pain?

7. Why are the Turks terrified?

8. What do the negotiations discussed at the end of Book XIII result in?

9. What did Alexius want the crusaders to do at the end of Book X?

10. What happened with Diogenes at the end of Book IX?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In "The Alexiad", Alexius is described as being set on war to expand his country or territories. In an essay, compare Alexius' focus on the war with his focus on peace within his family. Discuss the differences in his character by comparing his actions in different parts of "The Alexiad".

Essay Topic 2

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

Essay Topic 3

The Emperor was an important figure in the Byzantine Empire. In an essay, discuss the role of the Emperor, including significant tasks and responsibilities. Discuss how Alexius met these responsibilities while using the book to support your statements.

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