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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. Men seek from saints that which belongs to whom?

2. Folly argues that she alone can make sin what?

3. Philosophers say that man can compensate for what nature has denied him by what?

4. According to Folly, who despises money?

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

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Folly differentiate between the two types of insanity?

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

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

4. Describe the worship of the goddess Folly.

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

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

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

8. Does Folly state that monks are foolish?

9. How does Folly compare theologians to the apostles?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

Essay Topic 2

Why does Folly claim divinity? How does she compare herself to the other gods? How is she worshiped?

Essay Topic 3

Erasmus does not explicitly name specific people from his day as followers of Folly, but he does name professions. Choose two occupations and show how its members are followers of Folly. How does Folly criticize them with her praise?

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