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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. According to Machiavelli, how did the Nobles of Rome attempt to correct the limit on the wealth that was placed on them by Agrarian Laws?
(a) They raised taxes on Plebes who used the land awarded to them by the Agrarian Laws.
(b) Rome would send out armies to colonize lands that were then distributed to Nobles.
(c) The Nobles took political control over the Senate and changed the laws to allow Nobles to control all the land of the Empire.
(d) They reduced taxes on themselves and used their increased wealth to buy back their land.

2. How did Machiavelli begin the preface to "The Discourses"?
(a) As a letter to two political thinkers from Florence.
(b) As a warning to future generations of the tenuous nature of freedom.
(c) As a cynical commentary to the weakness of leaders of his time.
(d) With advice to two friends on how to keep their friends close and their enemies closer.

3. What is an obvious counterpoint to Machiavelli's assertion to the benefits of the power of the Caesars to the Roman Empire?
(a) The cost of Empire caused hazards to gather domestically as well as throughout the Empire.
(b) Without the Caesars, provinces of the Empire would have moved to avoid hazards.
(c) If the Nobles of Rome had not sought to possess distant provinces, there would have been no need for Caesars.
(d) Without the empire is it possible that the hazards the empire faced would not have materialized.

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 assures a smooth transition of power.
(b) Because keeping the appearance of those institutions helps to keep important advisers within the circle of government.
(c) Because keeping the appearance of those institutions helps to hide the true agenda of the Prince.
(d) 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).

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

Short Answer Questions

1. How long did Sparta peacefully exist without changing its laws, according to Machiavelli?

2. What is Machiavelli's explanation for initiating his recommended approach with enemies against an empire?

3. In defending his view that Roman Dictators served their city well, what phrase does Machiavelli use to explain how the Caesars absorbed their power?

4. What does Machiavelli consider an important tool in maintaining the order of a Republic?

5. What does Machiavelli consider prudence in a Prince or a King?

(see the answer key)

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