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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Book Three, The Example of Rome's Great Men, Internal Security, Equanimity, Insurrection, Confidence, Electioneering, and the Tendering of Advice, Advice to Generals in the Field.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Machiavelli believe to be important to extending the life of what he calls "mixed bodies" (Republics and Sects)?
(a) Returning to their original principles.
(b) Staying in a continual state of war.
(c) Keeping turmoil alive between common masses.
(d) Providing the means from the state to keep them secure.

2. What did Machiavelli suggest is the advantage of settling in areas that were "sterile" (barren)?
(a) Barren areas stand at crossroads between fertile areas so they can control trade between prosperous cities.
(b) The isolation from more fertile areas allow for greater freedom.
(c) Residents of sterile areas become more creative and develop technologies that can be sold to more fertile areas.
(d) The poverty of resources would require those living there to have less cause for discord.

3. What was a rival Empire to Rome as Rome began its expansion?
(a) The Spartans.
(b) The Carthaginians.
(c) The Babylonians.
(d) The Egyptians.

4. What are the two things that give an army confidence according to Machiavelli?
(a) Tactics and technology.
(b) That it is well armed and organized and each man should know the other.
(c) Deception and strength.
(d) Victory and technology.

5. According to Machiavelli, if men have prospered greatly by one procedure, what is not possible?
(a) To persuade them they can do well with other procedures.
(b) To undo their honor.
(c) To remove them from their position.
(d) To undo their success.

Short Answer Questions

1. What, according to Machiavelli in Book , 1 Section 38, is the fate of irresolute Republics?

2. Based upon Machiavelli's details, for whose benefit were the "demonstrations made to the benefit" of Plebes devoted?

3. What does Machiavelli claim happens to great men in times of peace?

4. What does Machiavelli believe to the nature of men that causes them to either fight from ambition or from necessity?

5. If a cliché could be given to the preface to Book Two of "The Discourses", what would it be?

(see the answer key)

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