Fate on Trial

Students imagine a courtroom in which Aeneas stands accused and evaluate whether key actions show free will or destiny. For five scenarios (saving Anchises, loving Dido, leaving Carthage, visiting the underworld, killing Turnus), they decide which force predominates and justify the claim in 2-3 sentences with textual evidence. A brief debate wrap-up invites a 5-6 sentence closing argument from either “Destiny’s Lawyer” or “Free Will’s Lawyer.” The activity develops argumentation skills, claim-evidence-reasoning structure, and rhetorical voice. It also deepens thematic understanding of Roman views on fate and duty. Teachers can use it as preparation for a Socratic seminar or mini-debate.

Curriculum Matched Skills

English Language Arts – Writing: Argumentative Writing (claims and evidence)

English Language Arts – Reading Literature: Theme and Central Ideas

English Language Arts – Speaking and Listening: Discussion and Debate

Civics Connections – Evaluating Ethical Reasoning and Responsibility

This worksheet is part of our Aeneid collection.