View a FREE sample

This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where does Boethius usually study before going to prison?

2. What is stitched on the woman's clothes?

3. What protects Boethius from his persecutors according to the woman?

4. What does Philosophy say about Fortune's treatment of men?

5. Why does Philosophy say no-one can truly be happy in life?

Short Essay Questions

1. Based on the woman's argument, why are material goods inherently valueless?

2. Why would Boethius choose not to mention the Bible in "The Consolation of Philosophy"?

3. What does Lady Philosophy disagree with his view on providence at the end of Book 1?

4. Why does the woman urge Boethius to break his silence?

5. What is significant about the clothing worn by the woman who enters Boethius' cell?

6. What does the woman tell Boethius regarding his suffering?

7. What diagnosis does the Lady Philosophy make and what does she point out at the beginning of Book II?

8. What does Boethius believe about happiness, according to Book II and how does this relate to Christian thinking?

9. Why does Boethius disagree with the woman regarding misery and what is her rebuttal?

10. What is the significance of the woman's discussion with Boethius on blessings when Boethius complains about the tangibility of his pain?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Although providence can prove difficult to understand, it can be explained as the reason of God and the order of the universe. Discuss what Boethius believes about God's plan for the world and how it relates to fate. Students should use examples from the text to support their discussion.

Essay Topic 2

The appearance of Lady Philosophy proves significant in "The Consolation of Philosophy". In an essay, analyze the significance of the dress she wears and the symbolism of the letters on her clothing. Define symbolism and use examples from the text to support your conclusions.

Essay Topic 3

Boethius discusses God as the attainment of perfect happiness in Book III. Discuss how Boethius tries to prove God's existence based on our inadequate desires and true happiness. Students should discuss why Boethius believes seeking happiness through earthly desires is futile. Students should use the text to support their statements.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 936 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample