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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. Who is Tatus according to Anna?

2. What family helped Alexius secure the right of the throne over his brother Isaac?

3. Who does Alexius make ruler of the area after defeating Tzelgu's army?

4. What does Anna say Alexius invents for his brother Isaac?

5. What was taken from Tzachas when Alexius took power?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Alexius realize about Robert in Book V?

2. What occurred at the synod held before Cosmas stepped down?

3. What does Alexius discover on his way back to Constantinople and what does Alexius do as a result?

4. How does Alexius drive Byrennius out of Castoria at the beginning of Book VI?

5. What problems arise with the Ducas family at the beginning of Book III?

6. What was the role of the Comans in Book VII?

7. What is the prophecy at the end of Book II?

8. What is celebrated at the end of Book VI?

9. What happens to the night ambush Alexius planned in Book IV?

10. What did Anna the Elder do for the Empire?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In an essay, discuss the role of the empress in "The Alexiad", including her responsibilities and tasks. Students may use outside resources to support their discussion.

Essay Topic 2

The Scythian War began as a result of Tzelgu's actions; however, it was perpetuated because of Alexius' lack of belief that the Scythians wanted peace. In an essay, discuss Alexius' refusal to believe them and the result of this conclusion, using the text to support your statements.

Essay Topic 3

The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is one of the most significant religious and cultural settings in the Byzantine Empire. In an essay, discuss the significance of the Church and give examples from the text to support your discussion.

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