1. Why does Machiavelli say a hereditary prince is usually more loved by his subjects?
(a) He allows the people to do exactly as they please.
(b) He goes to school with the children of the princedom.
(c) His face is on their coins.
(d) He has less of a chance of giving offense.

2. What ancient example does Machiavelli use to illustrate the rise to power through criminal actions?
(a) Alexander the Great.
(b) Agathocles of Sicily.
(c) Moses.
(d) Pope Alexander IV.

3. Which examples does Machiavelli use to support the idea of not being overly generous?
(a) Moses and the Duke of Milan.
(b) King Midas and King Darius.
(c) The King of Spain and the King of France.
(d) King Saul and Ramses the Great.

4. In acquiring a new dominion, if the prince does not use the force of his own arms, what alternative does Machiavelli suggest?
(a) Political intrigue.
(b) Appeals to the Pope of Rome.
(c) Free elections.
(d) The arms of others.

5. What is the irony of the death of Oliverotto of Fermo who came to power by assembling all the leaders for a dinner and then killing them all?
(a) A son of one of the murdered men put poison in his wine.
(b) Cesare Borgia did the same thing to him.
(c) He was accidentally killed by a poorly aimed arrow.
(d) He died of natural causes before he could become Prince of Fermo.

Short Answer Questions

1. Machiavelli says some new princes may gain their new states either in exchange for money or as a favor. What other means does he point out for gaining a state?

2. How does Machiavelli say that the great military leaders of history were so successful?

3. What does Machiavelli see as an inevitable result of changes in government?

4. What is the advantage of being miserly?

5. What does Machiavelli say is the first requirement of a commander?

(see the answer key)

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