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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. 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 eventually become overwhelmed by his conscience and slip away into obscurity.
(b) He will find ways to subvert the Prince and take his power.
(c) He will become the most effective aide to the Prince and help expand his power over the citizens.
(d) He will, in short time, become so insolent as to put an end to all civil law.

2. From what did Machiavelli develop the information that he wrote into "The Discourses"?
(a) From interviews with political thinkers of the day.
(b) From research that he did in the many libraries throughout the former Roman Empire.
(c) From long experience and continuous study of worldly affairs.
(d) From his world travels to study governments in other cultures.

3. According to Machiavelli, what is the first thing that Citizens seek when starting on the path of chasing their ambitions?
(a) Not to be harmed by citizens or magistrates.
(b) A cause that will incite the passions of the general masses.
(c) Means to win access to public office.
(d) The support of a wealthy Noble.

4. Through what means does Machiavelli suggest that a City can achieve what he considers greatness?
(a) Through conquest and deceit.
(b) Through fear and violence.
(c) Through love or force.
(d) Through laws and wealth.

5. Why does Machiavelli suggest that those who have received great rewards should not be spared punishments for acting badly?
(a) Because doing so gives the Prince the opportunity to prove his harshness.
(b) Because doing so helps the Republic remain free for a long time.
(c) Because doing so keeps the most famous citizens obedient to the Prince.
(d) Because doing so helps to find the most ardent supporters of the Prince.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Machiavelli suggest wars should be quick with limited damage to the conquered City?

2. Why does Machiavelli claim these forms of government developed?

3. What does Machiavelli recommend to a City that is unable to defend itself, but wants to be protected from anyone who would attack it?

4. What did Machiavelli establish as the cycle of governing forms?

5. What are the two important items that Machiavelli considers to be unwise for a Prince to put entirely into peril?

Short Essay Questions

1. What two methods did Machiavelli identify that Roman Nobility drew honor from the Plebes?

2. To what is Machiavelli referring when he writes of men jumping, "...from one ambition to another?"

3. What kind of Prince does Machiavelli consider to be Excellent?

4. What acts by governing officials does Machiavelli consider "pernicious" or damaging to the authority of the government?

5. In the title of Book 1, Section 8, what does Machiavelli mean with the phrase, "...so much so calumnies are pernicious...?"

6. From what did Niccolo Machiavelli make the present that he sent to Zanobi Buondelmonti and Cosimo Rucellai?

7. What does Machiavelli consider to be the worst example that can be committed in a Republic?

8. What are the three types of state that Machiavelli detailed and by what name are they known today?

9. What does Machiavelli claim to be the practice of writers of history who, "...so obey the fortune of the winners...?"

10. What examples from history does Machiavelli claim offers guidance to leaders?

(see the answer keys)

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