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. How was Folly born?

2. Which two nymphs nursed Folly?

3. Who speaks at the beginning of The Praise of Folly?

4. What does Folly state is necessary for friendship?

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

Short Essay Questions

1. Why did Erasmus dedicate his book to Thomas More?

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

3. Why does Folly claim to be a god?

4. Describe Folly's birthplace.

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

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

7. What benefits does Folly dispense to men?

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

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

10. How does Folly describe her parentage?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Folly contrasts natural instinct with learning. Describe this comparison. How does Folly describe each? Which side does Folly praise? Is this Erasmus's opinion?

Essay Topic 2

Folly's main argument is that she brings happiness to men. Explain and give three examples of men who are made happier by Folly. Would you agree?

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 588 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample