View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What type of story does Philosophy say pervades history?

2. How many "Goods" does philosophy talk about when she explains what men usually think is true happiness?

3. What can happen as soon as popular acclaim is given?

4. What does Lady Philosophy say of the evil person that has power?

5. Who does Philosophy say was famous for his wicked lifestyle?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does the woman remind Boethius of in regards to God's governance?

2. How does God use providence?

3. What is implied about the choices of men and the problem of evil?

4. What is the essence of true happiness as introduced at the beginning of Book III?

5. How are actions their own rewards, as stated in Book IV?

6. What does the woman liken God to and what is the significance of this analogy?

7. What metaphysical principle does the woman address and why is this significant?

8. What does the woman remark about randomness and order?

9. Why should the five goods not be entirely dismissed?

10. In light of Christian doctrine, what is the significance of the statement that "there are, some of them extremely harsh, and some, I think, with a purifying mercy"(124)?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Book V, Boethius addresses free will. Based on "The Consolation of Philosophy", address how God can be all knowing yet allow free will. Students should use the text to support their conclusions.

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.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 753 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample