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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. Finish this phrase: "Who stubs his toe upon the ___."

2. How many vessels sailed to Alcyone?

3. It is said that seamen are not equipped for which type of warfare?

4. The Museum stood under a statue of which of the following?

5. The narrator bore _____ unhealed wounds on his legs.

Short Essay Questions

1. Discuss the issues faced by Polemides n Chapter XXV. Where is Polemides' destination?

2. What is the reaction of the people when they hear Alcibiades' speech? What are the thoughts of Lysander and the elders?

3. What happens when Alcibiades returns to Athens?

4. Where is Alcibiades at this time? What are his plans? What is the reaction of Polemides?

5. What happens after the Athenians execute their generals? What is the reaction of Sparta?

6. Describe the situation between Alcibiades, Polemides, and Lysander. What does Lysander say about Alcibiades future?

7. Polemides shows a completely different side when it comes to his family. Examine Polemides' familial ties.

8. Examine Alcibiades' weakness regarding women.

9. What causes Alcibiades to become injured? How does the injury damage his reputation as a leader?

10. Discuss the reaction of the people upon Alcibiades' departure. What did the Athenians do to prevent corruption of power?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The story of Socrates is a constant thread throughout the story as Jason's connection with the great philosopher is the way in which Jason meets Polemides. Explain the importance of including Socrates in the story. Write a biographical sketch on Socrates and tell why he was in prison. Include Socrates' philosophies and legacy.

Essay Topic 2

The narration of the story mainly falls on Jason or his grandson. Why does Pressfield choose to have the grandson narrate instead of Jason? Why is Jason an important enough character to lead the story? Who else narrates? Does each person tell his own story? Who do you think is the best narrator? Why? Does the story benefit from having more than one narrator or is the switch confusing and/or unnecessary? Explain.

Essay Topic 3

Persia was a large and wealthy kingdom at this time. During various times in the book Persia was seen as both enemy and ally. Explain the relationship between Sparta and Persia. Also examine the relationship between Athens and Persia. Do you think Persia might have been defeated if Sparta and Athens had become allies? What prevented the two city-states from going to war with Sparta? How did the outcome of the battle between Athens and Sparta affect Persia? Discuss the Persian leaders, wealth and political position.

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