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

2. 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?

3. From what did Machiavelli develop the information that he wrote into "The Discourses"?

4. Why does Machiavelli suggest that those who have received great rewards should not be spared punishments for acting badly?

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

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Machiavelli disagree with Plutarch's claim that Rome acquired its Empire more by good Fortune than by Virtu?

2. What does Machiavelli mean when he advises that evil in a State be "temporized"?

3. What does Machiavelli recommend to be done if one wants to establish a Republic where it does not exist?

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

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

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

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

8. Why should a Prince measure his forces and govern by his decisions based upon them before he enters a war?

9. Why were the Plebe candidates not suited for the open positions of the Tribunes?

10. Why does Machiavelli recommend to leaders of a Republic to keep a shadow of the institutions that are being reformed?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Machiavelli is critical of ambition in Book 1, Section 46. Do you agree with Machiavelli's criticisms? Why or why not? What is your view of ambition and how does individual freedom affect ambition?

Essay Topic 2

In Machiavelli's characterization of evil against the state and the benefits of the powers of the Roman Caesars, he provides a perspective that defines his view of government and freedom. What is that view? Does it match what you have been taught regarding both and does Machiavelli and what you have learned up to this point match your personal views on government and freedom? Define the similarities and the differences and use documented support from both the book and your educational experiences to support your position.

Essay Topic 3

Machiavelli began his observations of war in Book 2. Find Machiavelli's views of three different ways wars benefit a Republic. Respond to his positions with your own views. Support your views with the type of historical documentation Machiavelli used to support his positions. Do not limit yourself to the history of Rome.

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