The City of God by Augustine

The City of God by Augustine - Exam

1. The City of God, written by St. Augustine of Hippo in the early 5th century, is a monumental work of Christian philosophy that addresses the nature of the city of man in contrast to the city of God. In this profound treatise, Augustine responds to the cultural despair following the sack of Rome by the Visigoths in 410 AD, countering the pagan belief that the fall of the empire was due to the abandonment of the traditional Roman gods. Instead, Augustine posits that the true allegiance of the faithful lies not in earthly cities and their governance but in a spiritual community, defined by the love of God and the hope of eternal life. He systematically examines the history of humanity through a theological lens, articulating a vision of two distinct societies: one driven by self-love and pride, representing earthly kingdoms, and the other characterized by love for God, which ultimately leads to salvation. The work delves into profound themes such as divine providence, grace, free will, and the nature of true happiness, positioning Christianity as a refuge for believers and offering a robust defense of the faith amidst a crumbling empire. St. Augustine's exploration of the relationship between divine sovereignty and human history has had a lasting impact on Christian theology and Western thought, making The City of God a foundational text for understanding the interplay of faith, culture, and politics.

What is the primary purpose of Augustine's 'The City of God'?

A) To outline a plan for a perfect Christian government.
B) To provide a historical account of the Roman Empire's founding.
C) To defend Christianity against pagan accusations after the sack of Rome.
D) To document the life of Jesus Christ.

2. How does Augustine define the two cities?

A) The City of God is based on love of God, and the Earthly City on love of self.
B) The City of the clergy and the City of the laity.
C) The City of the past and the City of the future.
D) The City of Rome and the City of Jerusalem.

3. According to Augustine, what is the ultimate source of true peace?

A) God
B) A powerful emperor
C) Just laws
D) Military strength

4. According to Augustine, what is true freedom?

A) Liberation from sin to serve God.
B) Political independence from an empire.
C) Owning no property or earthly attachments.
D) The ability to do whatever one desires.

5. How does Augustine characterize earthly peace?

A) As a temporary and imperfect good.
B) As the primary goal of the Christian life.
C) As an impossible illusion not to be pursued.
D) As identical to the peace of the City of God.

6. What does Augustine argue about the cause of Rome's troubles?

A) Moral corruption, not the abandonment of pagan gods.
B) Military weakness and poor leadership.
C) Economic inflation and famine.
D) The rise of the Christian religion.

7. What is the final end or destiny of the City of God?

A) To achieve a perfect socialist state.
B) Eternal peace and happiness in heaven with God.
C) To be destroyed and reborn in a cycle.
D) To rule over a global earthly empire.

8. How does Augustine describe the relationship between the two cities in the present world?

A) The Earthly City will gradually become the City of God.
B) They are at constant and open war with each other.
C) They are intermingled and will be separated at the Last Judgment.
D) They are completely separate with no interaction.

9. What is Augustine's view on the purpose of government?

A) To restrain sin and maintain earthly order and peace.
B) To enforce Christian doctrine on all citizens.
C) To redistribute wealth equally among people.
D) To be abolished so God can rule directly.

10. According to Augustine, what was the first murder a symbol of?

A) The need for capital punishment.
B) A personal family dispute.
C) The conflict between the two cities (Cain and Abel).
D) A political assassination.

11. What does Augustine argue about the source of a society's characteristics?

A) A society is defined by its racial composition.
B) A society is defined by its economic system.
C) A society is defined by its geographical location.
D) A society is defined by what its people love collectively.

12. What is Augustine's perspective on the possibility of perfect justice on earth?

A) It can be achieved through the right laws.
B) It existed only in the Garden of Eden.
C) It is the main goal of the Church's mission.
D) It is impossible because of human sinfulness.

13. According to Augustine, what was the first sin?

A) Pride
B) Gluttony
C) Theft
D) Murder

14. What is the ultimate destination of the City of God?

A) A restored Roman Empire
B) A utopian city-state
C) Heavenly Jerusalem
D) An earthly paradise

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