1. How did Christian ideas and practices respond to changing political and social circumstances in the later Roman Empire? What appeal did Christianity have for Romans at this time, and what accounted for its spread? What role did the Emperor Constantine play in its success?
2. How did Hellenism spread, how far did it spread, and what effects did it have on both Greeks and those unfamiliar with Greek culture? Give some examples of Hellenistic influences on the Mediterranean world and its culture post Alexander the Great.
3. What were the main achievements and failures of the Roman Republic? Give some examples of some of the issues that impacted Roman life and society during the Republic and discuss these. How did the crisis of leadership in the late Republic lead to civil war, particularly after the assassination of Julius Caesar?
4. Augustus effectively became the first Roman Emperor in 31 BC and initiated a series of reforms that began a 200 year period of relative tranquility, peace, and prosperity for Rome and its Empire. Why were his successors, particularly after 180 AD, generally not as successful in expanding upon his achievements?
