(1)Was the Execution of Mary Queen of Scots Justifiable? remains an interesting question: at what point is a state justified in using violence against its internal enemies, particularly if they have been tempted into a plot by that government so as to reveal themselves. When does temptation become entrapment? And justifiable to whom -- God, the body politic, the international community? Most governments in the 16th century couldn't figure out why Elizabeth hadn't strangled her the day she arrived in custody.

(2)No, except in fireworks. The Chinese had the right priorities.

(3) No and No.

(4) Novel reading tends to undermine moral tendencies, which is its value.

(5) Poetry is much the most important server of truth, which is why Plato wanted it strictly controlled.

Three more famous questions for winter Lyceums:

"Were Brutus and his friends right to kill Julius Caesar?"
"If Women were Enfranchised, Would that Undermine their Innate Superiority over Men?"
"Is Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder?"

yours, Peter T.

(P.S. love it, kat!!)