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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 Philosophy say about the men only seeking the 5 goods she listed at the start of Book 3?

2. What ability would Boethius like the evil to lose?

3. What does high office often do to the man seeking it?

4. What does Philosophy say of true happiness?

5. What does God use to direct things close to him?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does the woman correct Boethius' statement about wishing that the evil would lose the ability to persecute the good?

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

3. In Book IV, what can be concluded about the wicked being punished?

4. What has nature ordained, according to Book III and what does this say about man's goal?

5. What is the conclusion about the happiness and man's participation in happiness?

6. What is the error that men run into?

7. Why is Boethius still troubled at the beginning of Book IV and what does Lady Philosophy say?

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

9. How does God use providence?

10. Why do God's methods defy human reason?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Boethius was influenced by Stoicism. Discuss the influence that Stoicism had on Boethius and his writing of "The Consolation of Philosophy". Students may use secondary sources as well as a primary text to develop their conclusions.

Essay Topic 2

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 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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This section contains 728 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample