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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why do people become slaves, according to Seneca?
(a) It is punishment for a crime.
(b) It is by their merit.
(c) It is their choice.
(d) It is by their fortune.

2. Why, according to Seneca, shouldn't old age frighten a wise man?
(a) A wise man doesn't fear death.
(b) Because his mind is too far gone to be scared.
(c) Because he knows he will go to heaven.
(d) Because old and wise go together.

3. How does Seneca say all people -- young and old alike -- should live each day?
(a) As if it is their last.
(b) Without much physical activity or worry.
(c) As if it is their first.
(d) Safely.

4. What is it that Seneca says no human being merits?
(a) A beating.
(b) Mental torture.
(c) Correction.
(d) Love.

5. According to Seneca, what is man's only pride?
(a) His body.
(b) His soul.
(c) His face.
(d) His mind.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Letter XLI, where is the soul from?

2. Who suggests the correspondence between Seneca and his student should increase?

3. What ailment, according to Letter LIV, has become very serious for Seneca?

4. What topic does Seneca discuss in Letter XL?

5. What does Seneca encourage in Letter VI?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are Seneca's thoughts on fear and how to eliminate it from life?

2. According to Seneca, who should think about death and why?

3. What is Seneca's opinion of Vatia? How does it differ from public opinion?

4. What is the appeal of a slow death for Stoics? What does Seneca believe happens after death?

5. Lucilius writes Seneca that his melancholy mood remained unchanged no matter how far he traveled from home. How does Seneca explain Lucilius' complaint?

6. Explain the importance to occasional fasting according to Seneca.

7. What is a sedan chair and why does Seneca use one occasionally?

8. In Letter II, how does Seneca advise Lucilius to proceed with his study of philosophy?

9. How does Seneca explain how he partakes of the festivities of Saturnalia?

10. What is the difference between a Stoic and anyone else in regards to emotions?

(see the answer keys)

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