1.
In Italy, what does a gift of yellow flowers suggest?
Correct Answer
A. Jealousy
Explanation
A gift of yellow flowers in Italy suggests jealousy. In Italian culture, yellow flowers are associated with feelings of jealousy and envy. Therefore, presenting someone with yellow flowers may imply that the giver is feeling jealous or envious of the recipient. This cultural belief adds a symbolic meaning to the color of the flowers and influences the interpretation of the gift.
2.
Which of the following science fiction writers is of Italian descent?
Correct Answer
A. Valerio Evangelisti
Explanation
Valerio Evangelisti is of Italian descent because his name is of Italian origin, suggesting an Italian heritage. This can be inferred from the fact that the other three writers, Anne Rice, Dan Brown, and Stephen King, do not have names that indicate Italian ancestry.
3.
Which of the following Italians is a Grand Prix race car driver?
Correct Answer
B. Antonio Ascari
Explanation
Antonio Ascari is a correct answer because he was an Italian Grand Prix race car driver. He competed in the early 20th century and had a successful career, winning multiple races and championships. Ascari's son, Alberto Ascari, also became a successful Formula One driver, further adding to the family's racing legacy.
4.
Who was the first emperor of Rome?
Correct Answer
C. Octavian
Explanation
Octavian, also known as Augustus, was the first emperor of Rome. He was the adopted son of Julius Caesar and became the sole ruler of Rome after defeating Mark Antony in the Battle of Actium. Octavian's reign marked the end of the Roman Republic and the beginning of the Roman Empire. He implemented numerous reforms, stabilized the economy, and expanded the empire's territories. Octavian's rule lasted for over 40 years and laid the foundation for the Pax Romana, a period of relative peace and stability in the Roman Empire.
5.
What did Romans call the Colosseum?
Correct Answer
C. Flavian AmpHitheatre
Explanation
The Romans called the Colosseum the Flavian Amphitheatre. This name was given to the Colosseum because it was commissioned by the Flavian dynasty, specifically Emperor Vespasian, and completed by his sons Titus and Domitian. The term "amphitheatre" refers to the shape of the building, which is a large oval or circular structure with tiers of seating surrounding a central arena. Therefore, the correct answer is Flavian Amphitheatre.
6.
What did the teachings of Jesus become known as?
Correct Answer
B. Christianity
Explanation
The teachings of Jesus became known as Christianity. This is because Jesus was the central figure in the development of this religion, and his teachings formed the foundation of its beliefs and practices. Christianity is a monotheistic religion that believes in the existence of one God, and it is based on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Bible, which contains the sacred scriptures of Christianity, serves as a guide and source of authority for its followers.
7.
What doea the Latin word paganus mean?
Correct Answer
A. Country Dweller
Explanation
The Latin word "paganus" refers to a country dweller. This term was used in ancient Rome to describe individuals who lived in rural areas, as opposed to those who lived in cities. The word does not carry any negative connotations such as evil-doer or non-believer, nor does it specifically denote atheism. Instead, it simply refers to someone who resides in a rural or countryside setting.
8.
Who did Emperor Commodius like to dress up as?
Correct Answer
D. Hercules
Explanation
Emperor Commodius liked to dress up as Hercules. This is evident from historical records and accounts that mention Commodius' fascination with Hercules and his desire to emulate him. Commodius was known for his love of gladiatorial combat and physical strength, which he believed mirrored the qualities of Hercules. He often appeared in public dressed as Hercules and even commissioned statues and artwork depicting himself as the mythical hero. This fascination with Hercules showcased Commodius' desire to be seen as a powerful and heroic figure.
9.
Emperor Constantine helped build Christian churches in all the following locations except which?
Correct Answer
B. Alexandria
Explanation
Emperor Constantine played a significant role in the spread and establishment of Christianity in the Roman Empire. He is known for constructing numerous churches in various locations to promote the faith. However, Alexandria, a major city in Egypt, was not one of the places where Constantine built Christian churches. This could be due to various reasons such as political or religious dynamics in Alexandria during that time.
10.
What was an arena in ancient Rome called?
Correct Answer
A. Circus
Explanation
In ancient Rome, an arena was called a Circus. The Circus was a large oval or rectangular structure where chariot races, gladiator fights, and other public spectacles took place. It was a popular form of entertainment for the Roman citizens and often had seating areas for spectators to watch the events. The Circus Maximus in Rome was one of the most famous and largest circuses in ancient Rome.
11.
What is the name of a famous Italian astronaut?
Correct Answer
D. Roberto Vittori
Explanation
Roberto Vittori is a famous Italian astronaut. He has been a member of the European Space Agency (ESA) and has participated in several space missions, including missions to the International Space Station (ISS). Vittori has made significant contributions to space exploration and has garnered recognition for his achievements in the field.
12.
What Italian metropolis has the largest population?
Correct Answer
D. Rome
Explanation
With a population of 2.8 million inhabitants, Rome is one of the most populous cities in Italy, surpassing both Milan and Naples, the capital of the country.
13.
Which of the following men was a famous Italian cartoonist?
Correct Answer
C. Hugo Pratt
Explanation
Hugo Pratt was a famous Italian cartoonist known for creating the iconic comic book character Corto Maltese. His unique style and storytelling abilities made him a prominent figure in the world of cartoons and comics. His works have been widely acclaimed and have had a significant impact on the industry.
14.
What famous political scandal rocked the country of Italy in the 1990's?
Correct Answer
C. Clean Hands
Explanation
In the 1990s, Italy was rocked by a famous political scandal known as "Clean Hands" or "Mani Pulite" in Italian. This scandal involved widespread corruption and bribery among politicians, businessmen, and public officials. The investigation exposed a network of illegal activities, including kickbacks, embezzlement, and illicit funding of political parties. The Clean Hands scandal led to the downfall of many prominent politicians and parties, reshaping the Italian political landscape and sparking a wave of reforms to combat corruption.
15.
What Italian explorer explored the Mississippi Valley in America?
Correct Answer
D. Henri De Tonti
Explanation
Henri De Tonti is the correct answer because he was an Italian explorer who explored the Mississippi Valley in America. He was a trusted companion of the French explorer Robert de La Salle and played a significant role in the exploration and settlement of the region during the late 17th century. Tonti established a trading post and fort at the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers, known as Fort St. Louis, which served as a base for further exploration and trade in the area.