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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 Anna say her account of the events that took place is accurate?

2. How many years after peace is made with the Turks do the Comans enter Alexius' empire?

3. Who attacks the Empire of Cicilia in Book XII?

4. What punishment does the conspirator receive?

5. Why does Bohemund send men to meet with Alexius?

Short Essay Questions

1. What was not safe, according to Book VIII?

2. In Book XIII, what happens between Alexius and Aaron?

3. What does Anna say about Alexius' pain?

4. What happened to the Scythians in the battle at Levenium that proved pivotal to the war?

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

6. What plot did Alexius create in Book X of "The Alexiad" and was it successful?

7. What is happening in Nicea at the beginning of Book XI?

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

9. Where does Alexius want to travel and who does he ask to accompany him?

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

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

After examining ancient law, Alexius determines that it is okay to sell church property to ransom prisoners of war. In an essay, discuss ancient law and how it affected Alexius' decisions either positively or negatively, using the text to support your discussion.

Essay Topic 3

"The Alexiad" includes several conspiracies which focus on destabilizing Alexius and the throne. In an essay, compare two or three of the conspiracies discussed in "The Alexiad", including how they were planned and the tactics that would have been employed had they not been uncovered. Use the text to support your discussion.

(see the answer keys)

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