This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Book One, The Development of Rome's Constitution, The Use and Abuse of Dictatorship, The Road to Ruin, Sundry Reflections Based on the Decemvirate.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What was the inspiration for Machiavelli's "The Discourses"?
(a) Livy's account of the history of Rome written around 25 B.C.
(b) Machiavelli's fascination for power.
(c) Machiavelli's interest in forms of government.
(d) Machiavelli's desire to guide politicians to serve the public needs.

2. In defending his view that Roman Dictators served their city well, what phrase does Machiavelli use to explain how the Caesars absorbed their power?
(a) "He who controls others may be powerful, but he who has mastered himself is mightier still."
(b) "Justice and power must be brought together, so that whatever is just may be powerful, and whatever is powerful may be just."
(c) "It is power that easily acquires a name, not a name power."
(d) "Power corrupts. Knowledge is power. Study hard. Be evil."

3. How does Machiavelli predict a citizen will conduct himself if he is not punished for his misdeeds because of his reputation for doing good deeds, according to Machiavelli.
(a) He will become the most effective aide to the Prince and help expand his power over the citizens.
(b) He will find ways to subvert the Prince and take his power.
(c) He will, in short time, become so insolent as to put an end to all civil law.
(d) He will eventually become overwhelmed by his conscience and slip away into obscurity.

4. Why does Machiavelli recommend that those who want to reform a city should retain the appearance of the institutions they want to reform?
(a) Because keeping the appearance of those institutions helps to hide the true agenda of the Prince.
(b) Because keeping the appearance of those institutions helps to keep important advisers within the circle of government.
(c) Because the general masses are satisfied with appearances and are moved by things as they appear rather than by the way they operate (perception is reality).
(d) Because keeping the appearance of those institutions assures a smooth transition of power.

5. How does Machiavelli suggest that Princes and other leaders deal with acts that offend their citizens?
(a) Make the offense quickly then act to reassure them and give them cause to quiet and firm their spirits.
(b) Increase taxes on the wealthy and use the money in ways that benefit the general masses.
(c) Distract the Citizens by making war against a nearby province.
(d) Increase their power and penalties for crimes and scare the Citizens into submission and acceptance.