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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Philosophy tell Boethius about his situation?
(a) That it is time to try to escape.
(b) That it is time to try to think of his lasts words.
(c) That he can cry all he wants.
(d) That it is time to stop moping.

2. What became rusty according to the test administered by the woman to Boethius?
(a) Boethius' chariot.
(b) Boethius' knife.
(c) Boethius' mind.
(d) The bars of the cell.

3. What protects Boethius from his persecutors according to the woman?
(a) The sword of incompetence.
(b) The trumpets of Jericho.
(c) The fortress of Philosophy.
(d) The Canon of justice.

4. Why does Boethius suffer according to the woman?
(a) Because of his many sins.
(b) Because of his commitment to her.
(c) Because of his son's actions.
(d) Because of barbarian invasion.

5. Why does Philosophy say that material possessions are relatively insignificant?
(a) Because the body perishes.
(b) Because of taxation.
(c) Because they can be taken away by enemies.
(d) Because only God can give happiness.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Boethius say Philosophy's arguments do not soothe his pain?

2. What was Boethius aware of concerning Fortune?

3. Why is Boethius in jail?

4. Why does Philosophy praise Boethius' sons?

5. What gift did God give to men according to Boethius?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why would Boethius choose not to mention the Bible in "The Consolation of Philosophy"?

2. What does Lady Philosophy disagree with his view on providence at the end of Book 1?

3. What does the woman say about Fortune not being malicious at the end of Book II?

4. What is significant about the clothing worn by the woman who enters Boethius' cell?

5. Why does the woman urge Boethius to break his silence?

6. What is significant about the changing height of the woman who enters Boethius' cell?

7. What does the woman remind Boethius of in regards to the events and his attitude?

8. Why does the woman believe Boethius is responsible for his own suffering?

9. According to Lady Philosophy, what was on loan to him and subject to being revoked?

10. What is the significance of the title, "The Consolation of Philosophy"?

(see the answer keys)

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