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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 does the woman disagree with Boethius about in Book 1?

2. What does Philosophy tell Boethius after giving her example of happiness?

3. How tall is the woman that appears in Boethius' cell?

4. What does Lady Philosophy qualify herself as a doctor of?

5. What does Philosophy reply when Boethius tells her that his pain is real and tangible?

Short Essay Questions

1. Based on the woman's argument, why are material goods inherently valueless?

2. Why does Boethius praise God?

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

4. What does the woman tell Boethius regarding his suffering?

5. At the start of Book 1 of "The Consolation of Philosophy", where is Boethius and what is he doing?

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

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

8. What is the discussion in regards to fame and high office and why is this important?

9. What diagnosis does the Lady Philosophy make and what does she point out at the beginning of Book II?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Although providence can prove difficult to understand, it can be explained as the reason of God and the order of the universe. Discuss what Boethius believes about God's plan for the world and how it relates to fate. Students should use examples from the text to support their discussion.

Essay Topic 2

Boethius wrote "The Consolation of Philosophy" while imprisoned and awaiting execution. Discuss the nature of the crimes for which Boethius was imprisoned and how the circumstances surrounding his imprisonment may have contributed to his state of mind when composing the book. Students should take the title into consideration and use examples from the text to support your discussion.

Essay Topic 3

The appearance of Lady Philosophy proves significant in "The Consolation of Philosophy". In an essay, analyze the significance of the dress she wears and the symbolism of the letters on her clothing. Define symbolism and use examples from the text to support your conclusions.

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