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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 Folly, what is the seed and source of all deeds which win praise?

2. What is the Greek word for "folly"?

3. According to Folly, if wisdom became more widespread among men, what would result?

4. By Stoic definition, what does folly mean?

5. Erasmus predicts that his book will be criticized as being what?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. Why does Folly claim to be a god?

3. What does Folly think of people who hire someone else to praise themselves?

4. In his Prefatory Letter, why did Erasmus marvel at the sensitivity of present-day ears?

5. What does Folly say about emotions in relation to wisdom?

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

7. Did Erasmus consider The Praise of Folly too frivolous for a theologian?

8. According to Folly, do philosophers make good kings?

9. What does Folly do for the elderly?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

While using the narration of Folly, Erasmus subtly voices his own opinions. What is the relationship between narrator and author? When is Erasmus being ironic, and when is he being truthful? Cite at least one example for each.

Essay Topic 2

Both Erasmus in his Prefatory Letter and Folly in her speech appeal to precedents. Compare the two passages. What is the purpose of each? Whom does Erasmus reference? Whom does "Folly" reference?

Essay Topic 3

In his Prefatory Letter, Erasmus anticipates the criticism that his book is too frivolous for a theologian. How does he respond to the charge? Having read the book, how would you respond? Include specific citations from the book in your answer.

(see the answer keys)

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