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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. According to Erasmus, nothing is so trivial as treating what in a trivial manner?

2. According to Folly, who provides all advantages in life?

3. What does Folly say would be rampant without her?

4. Which two nymphs nursed Folly?

5. In which year did Erasmus date his Prefatory Letter?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Folly claim to be responsible for art?

2. Why did Erasmus ask More to be a champion of Folly?

3. Does Folly agree with those who say that it is conceited to praise one's self?

4. What benefits does Folly dispense to men?

5. What does Folly do for the elderly?

6. Where was Erasmus when he was writing The Praise of Folly?

7. How long did Folly say she spent writing her speech?

8. In his Prefatory Letter, did Erasmus admit he wrote Praise of Folly with sarcasm?

9. Are women more or less foolish than men, according to Folly?

10. What does Folly say is the happiest age of man, and why?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Define the character Folly. Describe her attributes and benefits. What are three things she gives to mankind?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the concept of friendship in The Praise of Folly. How would you describe Erasmus and More's friendship? What does Folly say about friendship? Do you think Erasmus believed folly necessary for his own friendships?

Essay Topic 3

The statement is made that only fools are allowed to speak the truth without giving offense. Is this why Erasmus used Folly? Do you think he offended people? Does Folly speak the truth? What is one example of when she does and one example of when she does not?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 585 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample