Alexandria 391 CE: Religious and Cultural Shifts

What event triggered the siege of the Serapium in Alexandria?

• A natural disaster

• Bishop Theophilus's raid on a pagan temple

• The discovery of a secret Christian temple

• A political election

What was the outcome for the pagan defenders at the Serapium?

• They surrendered and were pardoned

• They were executed

• They were victorious

• They fled the city

Which Roman Emperor was known for suppressing paganism during Hypatia's time?

• Julius Caesar

• Nero

• Constantine

• Theodosius I

What was a significant action taken by Theodosius I against paganism?

• He converted to paganism

• He built new pagan temples

• He celebrated pagan holidays

• He enforced laws against pagan sacrifices

How did Hypatia's Neoplatonism differ from the newer sects?

• It focused on ritual and divination

• It was more aligned with Christian beliefs

• It involved animal sacrifices

• It was based on astrology

What was a key belief of Hypatia's Neoplatonism?

• The soul is corrupt

• Material wealth is paramount

• The intellect connects to the divine

• The body is sacred

What role did Hypatia play in Alexandrian society?

• A bridge between communities

• A religious zealot

• A political rival

• A military leader

What was a common cause of violence in Alexandria during Hypatia's time?

• Religious and political tensions

• Economic collapse

• Natural disasters

• Foreign invasions

Who was Cyril in relation to Bishop Theophilus?

• His son

• His nephew

• His cousin

• His brother

What was Cyril's approach to those who opposed him?

• He sought peaceful negotiations

• He ignored them

• He vowed to use power against them

• He joined their cause