Potential AP Classical Foundations Questions

Remember, each of these questions requires a condensed, well-developed paragraph of 8-10 sentences. Your goal is to include as much specific detail and information as you can.  The actual test will only require you to answer five or six questions, but you need to prepare for all of them.

1. Make the argument that Beowulf is a) a tragic hero, b) an epic hero that embodies the values of his culture, or c) some combination of both.

2. Other than Antigone, which work best exemplifies the idea of catharsis? Why?

3. Discuss feminist criticism. What are its major objections with traditional literature?

4. Contrast the attitude towards pride demonstrated in The Iliad, The Ramayana, and Beowulf.

5. How does Beowulf illustrate the Norse concepts of Wyrd and lof?

6. How do the three parables we read illustrate the message of the New Testament?

7. The Qu'ran argues for submission to God, as does the Book of Ruth in the Old Testament.  Compare and contrast these messages.

8. How are the Greek concepts of arete and the Hindu concept of dharma similar? How do they differ?

9. Trace the development (historical and linguistic) of Old English from the origins of language in Poland. 🙂

10.  Why is knowledge of the Bible essential to understanding of Western culture? Make an argument that provides at least one literary example.

11. Explain the significance of the argument in the Bhagavad Gita that one must reject over-reliance on the senses.