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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. What does the narrator claim is being recycled in bad play-writing?

2. Which of the following types of wives was worst in Juvenal's eyes?

3. What was the price of the red mullet that Crispinus purchased?

4. Which of the following men was married to a fellow male performer?

5. In Satire IV, who did the king call when he could not find a plate large enough for his meal?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who was Gracchu, and what was Juvenal's complaint about him?

2. What reaction did Trebius have to the wine that he was served at Virro's dinner party?

3. How did lawyers in Juvenal's society earn clients?

4. Why did Juvenal "prefer the company of a eunuch"?

5. What did Juvenal consider to be the strongest vice in society during his time?

6. What did Juvenal claim was the worst kind of wife to have?

7. Who was Emperor Domitian?

8. Why did the people of Rome turn against the king after his debacle with the massive fish?

9. How did Caesar feel about the muses?

10. What advice was Postumus given when he decided that he would like to get married?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Juvenal's friend, Umbricius, is determined to not move away from Rome. Why does Umbricius feel that he must leave Rome? How does Juvenal react to Umbricius' move? Given the political state of Rome, which man's argument merits more of your empathy? Why?

Essay Topic 2

Naevolus is a friend of Juvenal's who is living a life that lacks Juvenal's approval. First, describe Naevolus' physicality. How has his appearance changed over the course of his relationship with Juvenal? What part of Naevolus' life has led to the change in his appearance? How does Juvenal feel about the life changes that Naevolus has undergone?

Essay Topic 3

Throughout his writings, Juvenal voices his opinions about wealth and evil. First, compare/contrast the different ways that both rich and poor can be corrupted by wealth. What is the same about the two types of corruption? What is different? Upon comparing/contrasting the corruption of those two classes, cite which group seems more likely to be corrupted? Are you able to detect the reflection of your position in the text?

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