1.
Which emperor's favourite saying was "Hurry slowly" (festina lente)
Correct Answer
B. Augustus
Explanation
Augustus was a Roman emperor known for his cautious and strategic approach to ruling. His favorite saying, "Hurry slowly" (festina lente), reflects his belief in taking measured and deliberate actions rather than rushing into decisions. This motto highlights his emphasis on careful planning and thoughtful execution, which contributed to his successful reign and the stability of the Roman Empire during his rule.
2.
Which of these women was NOT one of Claudius' wives?
Correct Answer
C. Antonia
Explanation
Antonia was not one of Claudius' wives. The question asks for the woman who was NOT one of Claudius' wives, and Antonia is the only option that fits this criteria. Messallina, Agrippina, and Aelia Paetina were all wives of Claudius, but Antonia was not.
3.
Which emperor added three letters to the Latin alphabet?
Correct Answer
C. Claudius
Explanation
Claudius is the correct answer because during his reign as emperor of Rome, he introduced three additional letters to the Latin alphabet. These letters were used to represent sounds that were present in the languages of the people living in the Roman Empire at that time but were not represented in the original Latin alphabet. This addition helped to improve communication and understanding among the diverse population of the empire.
4.
Another of Augustus' favourite expressions was "quick as boiled _______".
Correct Answer
asparagus
Explanation
Augustus' favorite expression "quick as boiled asparagus" implies that asparagus, when boiled, cooks quickly. This suggests that Augustus values efficiency and speed, and uses this expression to describe something that happens or is done very quickly.
5.
Which was NOT a name that Augustus had at some point in his life?
Correct Answer
A. Valerius
Explanation
Augustus, the first Roman emperor, had several names throughout his life. He was born as Gaius Octavius Thurinus, but after being adopted by his great-uncle Julius Caesar, he became Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus. Later, he dropped the name Octavianus and simply went by Augustus. Valerius, however, was not a name that Augustus had at any point in his life.
6.
Which of the following was NOT chosen as heir apparent by Augustus?
Correct Answer
D. Maecenas
Explanation
Augustus did not choose Maecenas as his heir apparent. Maecenas was a close friend and advisor to Augustus, but he was not in line for the succession to the throne. The three other options, Germanicus, Tiberius, and Gaius, were all considered as potential heirs by Augustus at different points in time.
7.
Who was Nero's 'arbiter elegentiae' (judge of good taste)?
Correct Answer
A. Petronius
Explanation
Petronius was Nero's 'arbiter elegentiae' (judge of good taste). This means that Petronius was responsible for determining what was considered fashionable, stylish, and culturally refined during Nero's reign. As the arbiter, Petronius likely had significant influence over Nero's aesthetic choices and the cultural trends of the time.
8.
Which of these provinces did Claudius personally visit?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Gallia
C. Britannia
Explanation
Claudius personally visited the provinces of Gallia and Britannia.
9.
Which empeor(s) exiled the Roman senator and philosopher Seneca?
Correct Answer(s)
B. Claudius
C. Caligula
Explanation
Seneca was exiled by both Claudius and Caligula. Claudius, who was the fourth Roman emperor, banished Seneca to Corsica for alleged adultery with Julia Livilla, sister of Caligula. However, Seneca was later recalled from exile by Agrippina, Claudius' niece and wife. Caligula, who was the third Roman emperor, also exiled Seneca to Corsica for eight years due to his alleged involvement in a conspiracy against him. Therefore, both Claudius and Caligula played a role in Seneca's exile.