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. Whom does Folly hold responsible for introducing the branches of learning?

2. Who protested when his friends rescued him from delusion?

3. What does Folly say that priests battle for?

4. Folly states that which group of people listens to the preaching of monks?

5. Which animal does Folly pity for being made to work with men?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. According to Folly, which kind of authors are happy?

3. Why does Folly say that kings like to be around fools?

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

5. After comparing herself to Bacchus, in what ways does Folly consider herself superior to the other gods?

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

7. How does Folly explain that humans amuse the gods?

8. How does Folly compare theologians to the apostles?

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

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

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

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 3

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?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 666 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample