AP Latin FRQ Practice

1. Translation and Interpretation

Question:

Translate the following excerpt from Aeneid (Book 1) by Virgil into English. After the translation, answer the questions below.

Excerpt:

"Forsan et haec olim meminisse juvabit."

Questions:

1. What is the meaning of the phrase “Forsan et haec olim meminisse juvabit” in the context of the Aeneid?
2. How does this line relate to the larger themes of the Aeneid?

Response Guidelines:

• Provide an accurate translation of the Latin text into English.
• In answering the first question, explain how this line reflects Aeneas' view of his journey and his sense of destiny. It is important to link it to the emotional tone of the moment.
• For the second question, discuss the theme of fate and memory that permeates the Aeneid. Relate this line to the larger narrative and how Aeneas looks forward to the future while grappling with present hardships.

Grading Rubric:

• Level 5 (Excellent):
  The translation is accurate, and the response demonstrates a deep understanding of the text and its context. The explanation of the line’s meaning is insightful and well-developed, with a clear connection to the themes of the Aeneid.
  Score: 5 points
• Level 4 (Good):
  The translation is mostly accurate, and the response provides a solid explanation of the line's meaning with relevant discussion of the themes. Some minor details or depth might be lacking.
  Score: 4 points
• Level 3 (Satisfactory):
  The translation is mostly accurate but may contain some errors. The explanation of the line’s meaning is basic, and the connection to the themes is somewhat general or underdeveloped.
  Score: 3 points
• Level 2 (Limited):
  The translation contains significant errors, and the explanation is vague or incomplete. The response may lack a clear connection to the text’s themes.
  Score: 2 points
• Level 1 (Weak):
  The translation is largely incorrect, and the response does not answer the questions meaningfully.
  Score: 1 point

2. Literary Analysis and Comparison

Question:

In Aeneid Book 2, Aeneas recounts the fall of Troy. Compare this retelling of the Trojan War with the version of the story presented in Homer's Iliad. How does Virgil adapt the myth to fit his narrative and themes in the Aeneid?

Response Guidelines:

• Briefly describe the depiction of the Trojan War in Iliad, focusing on the main events and characters involved.
• Compare the portrayal of the fall of Troy in Aeneid with that in Iliad, noting how Virgil modifies elements of the myth for the purpose of his own epic.
• Discuss Virgil's adaptation in the context of his themes, such as fate, duty, and the founding of Rome. Consider how Aeneas' role and his divine mission differ from those of Homeric heroes.

Grading Rubric:

• Level 5 (Excellent):
  The response provides a clear, accurate comparison between the two texts, with specific examples from both the Aeneid and the Iliad. The analysis demonstrates an understanding of Virgil's thematic adaptation and literary techniques.
  Score: 5 points
• Level 4 (Good):
  The comparison is mostly accurate, with clear examples from both texts. The analysis of Virgil's adaptations is solid, but some connections between the themes and literary techniques may be underdeveloped.
  Score: 4 points
• Level 3 (Satisfactory):
  The comparison is basic, and some examples may be vague or inaccurate. The response touches on Virgil’s adaptation but may not fully explore its impact on the themes or narrative.
  Score: 3 points
• Level 2 (Limited):
  The response lacks depth or clarity, with few examples from the texts. The analysis of Virgil’s adaptation is minimal or unclear.
  Score: 2 points
• Level 1 (Weak):
  The response is disorganized or incorrect, with little to no comparison between the texts. The analysis is minimal or missing.
  Score: 1 point

3. Poetic Devices and Style

Question:

Analyze the use of similes and metaphors in Aeneid Book 4, when Dido is consumed by love for Aeneas. How do these devices contribute to the portrayal of her emotions and the overall narrative?

Response Guidelines:

• Identify specific similes and metaphors used by Virgil in this passage, paying attention to the language choices and their effects on the reader.
• Explain how Virgil's use of these devices enhances the depiction of Dido’s emotional turmoil and tragic fate.
• Discuss how these poetic devices fit into the larger structure and themes of the Aeneid, especially concerning love, fate, and duty.

Grading Rubric:

• Level 5 (Excellent):
  The response provides a detailed analysis of the similes and metaphors, explaining their significance in the portrayal of Dido’s emotions and their connection to the themes of the Aeneid. The response is insightful and well-supported by textual evidence.
  Score: 5 points
• Level 4 (Good):
  The analysis of the similes and metaphors is clear, with appropriate examples from the text. The response makes relevant connections to Dido’s emotions and the themes of the Aeneid, though some points may lack depth or elaboration.
  Score: 4 points
• Level 3 (Satisfactory):
  The response discusses similes and metaphors but may not explore their significance in depth. Some connections to Dido’s emotions and the themes may be superficial or incomplete.
  Score: 3 points
• Level 2 (Limited):
  The analysis of poetic devices is vague or incomplete, with limited discussion of their effect on the narrative or themes.
  Score: 2 points
• Level 1 (Weak):
  The response lacks a meaningful analysis of similes and metaphors, with little or no connection to the portrayal of Dido’s emotions or the themes.
  Score: 1 point