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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 20.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Machiavelli say was the reason for successes by Cyrus, Romulus, and Theseus?
(a) They did not understand the thinking of the people.
(b) Like Moses, they could talk with God.
(c) It had nothing to do with fortune, but was because of their own talents.
(d) They were standing in the right place at the right time.

2. Why should a prince keep down factions in his princedom?
(a) Factions keep him tied up as a judge all the time.
(b) The weaker faction will side with an outside enemy, and the stronger will not be able to hold out.
(c) People enjoy the debates and work production slows down.
(d) The prince must decide which faction is stronger and play up to them.

3. What does Machiavelli suggest is the best fortress for a prince?
(a) A palace surrounded by a wide moat.
(b) Military barracks surrounding his palace.
(c) Favorable public opinion.
(d) A palace in the center of the city.

4. How does Machiavelli describe the temper (mindset) of the public?
(a) Ignorant.
(b) Easily maintained.
(c) Careless.
(d) Fickle.

5. Those who were viewed with suspicion at the beginning of a princedom usually become the most loyal subjects. Why?
(a) They work hard to gain the approval of the prince.
(b) They never did anything to cause distrust in the first place.
(c) The prince will use them for unpopular tasks.
(d) The prince was a poor judge of character in the beginning.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Machiavelli say that Prince Lorenzo should not be surprised at what he is saying about new princedoms?

2. What did Heiro of Syracuse do when he realized his mercenary troops were worthless?

3. A prince who has acquired a new dominion added to his own should disarm the conquered people. Why?

4. Why does Machiavelli say that auxiliary forces are more dangerous than mercenaries?

5. Citing Moses, Cyrus, Romulus, and Theseus, what distinction does Machiavelli make about Moses?

(see the answer key)

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