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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Machiavelli say his desire is for Prince Lorenzo?

2. What is the Renaissance Italian's view of political misfortune?

3. What factor does Machiavelli suggest makes it easier to rule a new territory?

4. Why does Machiavelli say a hereditary prince is usually more loved by his subjects?

5. Aside from humble beginnings, what does Machiavelli say that Agathocles and Oliverotto have in common?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Machiavelli explain a man of his common social standing being qualified to advise a prince?

2. What makes the instability of the Orsini and Cologna a constant struggle.

3. How did Cesare Borgia hold onto power in Romagna?

4. Describe the reasons Machiavelli says the German cities are so secure.

5. How are Ecclesiastical dominions so easily maintained?

6. Tell how Machiavelli suggests it is easiest to control a conquered state.

7. Explain the customary way to seek the favor and audience of a prince.

8. Describe the factors that may make it easier for a new prince to rule.

9. How does a prince maintain control inside a sieged city when the citizens see their homes and farms being burned outside the city?

10. How does Machiavelli distinguish between proper and improper use of cruelty?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay expressing your opinion on Machiavelli's statement that if a prince (or politician) establishes his authority, the means he uses will always be judged honorable. Use Cesare Borgia and Sadam Hussein as examples in your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay on the Medici family returning to power and what it meant to Machiavelli.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay on how education or the lack of it played a part in the politics of Machiavelli's time.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 976 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample