1. “The Emperor Caligula’s lust for brutality has been vastly exaggerated and he was not the monster he is portrayed as.” Is there any evidence to suggest there was a “kinder, gentler”
Caligula?

2. “Gladiatorial combat shows that at its core, the Roman Empire was brutal and uncivilized.” How much do you agree?

3. Does Muhammad’s concept of Jihad provide justification for contemporary Islamic fundamentalist violence?

4. “The popular response to the Black Death was incomprehensible and driven by fear and ignorance.” Is this a fair assessment of how people responded to the after 1347?

5. “The only contribution the Vikings made to Western Civilization was to bring murder, mayhem, and destruction.” How accurate is this view of the Viking impact on the West?

6. “The Spanish conquest of the Aztec and Inca Empires was primarily due to the courage and determination of the Conquistadors.” Does this statement adequately explain the Spanish conquest and
colonization of the Americas?

7. “Hannibal should not be considered one of Western Civilization’s greatest military commanders. After all, he lost the Battle of Zama and was ultimately tracked down by the Romans and forced
to commit suicide. “ Is this a fair assessment of Hannibal’s military achievements?

8. “William Wallace was a bloodthirsty murderer who does not deserve the heroic image many Scots have of him.” How much would you agree?