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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. Which group of people is Folly doubtful about admitting to her fellowship?

2. Who does Folly say refutes pagan philosophers by their way of life rather than syllogisms?

3. Folly believes that the happiest men use for their guide only whom?

4. In Folly's opinion, no one would be induced to take on the duties of a king without what?

5. Because they are amusing, Folly claims that fools are the favorites of whom?

Short Essay Questions

1. What example does Folly take from the animal kingdom to prove her point that the most foolish are the happiest?

2. How does Folly argue that flattery is not incompatible with sincerity?

3. According to Folly, which legendary age produced the happiest people, and why?

4. How does Folly compare theologians to the apostles?

5. According to Folly, how did Christ show folly?

6. What are naturally-born fools and idiots free from, according to Folly?

7. Before using the Scriptures, which authorities does Folly cite as supporting her?

8. According to Folly, who was happier: Gryllus or Odysseus? Why?

9. What examples does Folly give of the benevolent form of insanity?

10. How does Folly argue that Fortune favors the foolish?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Folly maintains that she bears great similarity to Christianity. Give three of her reasons and discuss whether her praise is genuine or not.

Essay Topic 2

Erasmus relies heavily on personification in The Praise of Folly. Give one example of personification besides that of Folly. How does Erasmus use personification to his benefit? Is his use effective?

Essay Topic 3

Folly spends some time on her "praise" of the follies of the Roman Catholic Church. List two members of the church and explain why they are foolish.

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