Sailing to Sarantium

After meeting Crispin, Zoticus observes, “some people never learn, do they?” (83). Does Crispin ever learn? Why, or why not? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

Zoticus believes that life and death are “the same journey in a different cloak” (411). Do you agree? Why, or why not? Cite examples from the novel to support your answer.

Crispin states that Empress Alixana is the most dangerous person on earth. Do you agree? Explain your answer using specific examples from the text.

What would have happened if the Imperial Courtier, Pronobius Tilliticus, had been on time in delivering the message? How would that have changed the story?

How does the concept of appeasing the masses with food and entertainment factor into politics in the story?

After all the problems caused by Pronobius Tilliticus’ poor behavior, is it right that he is later hailed as a wise, holy man? Support your answer with evidence from the novel.

Crispin and Carullus strike up an unlikely friendship after their tumultuous meeting. How did this friendship affect the plot? What would have happened if they did not become friends?

Crispin initially tells Gisel that “everything we do is folly” (75). She disagrees but states that she does “not expect to be the one who persuades” him of that (75). Who persuades Crispin? Why, and how? Cite examples from the text to support your argument.