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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. Why does Machiavelli say a hereditary prince is usually more loved by his subjects?
(a) His face is on their coins.
(b) He has less of a chance of giving offense.
(c) He goes to school with the children of the princedom.
(d) He allows the people to do exactly as they please.

2. In THE PRINCE, why does Machiavelli deal only with dominions and not republics?
(a) He thought dominions were much harder to keep.
(b) He wrote about republics in another work.
(c) There were no republics in his day.
(d) Dominions are much larger than republics.

3. What is Machiavelli offering the Prince Lorenzo de Medici?
(a) Means of mastering in a short time all Machiavelli has learned about governing.
(b) The chance to become king of all Italy.
(c) Personal introductions to great men Machiavelli knows.
(d) A large book of rules for new princes to use in governing the people.

4. Who does Machiavelli say should always be in charge of the troops in a princedom?
(a) A relative of the prince.
(b) A well paid mercenary captain.
(c) A trusted civilian commander.
(d) The prince himself.

5. What one thing does Machiavelli insist that every prince needs?
(a) A strong military.
(b) Deep pockets.
(c) The good will of the people.
(d) To read his book.

Short Answer Questions

1. What example does Machiavelli give of a conquered territory rebelling against 100 years of servitude?

2. What does Machiavelli suggest may make a hereditary ruler unpopular with his people?

3. How does Machiavelli define a new princedom or dominion?

4. What does Machiavelli say are the two foundations necessary for a princedom?

5. What does Machiavelli cite as the measure of strength of a principality?

Short Essay Questions

1. Tell how Machiavelli suggests it is easiest to control a conquered state.

2. Explain why Machiavelli does not speak about Republics in THE PRINCE.

3. Describe the conditions that made it possible for Moses, Romulus, Cyrus, and Theseus to be successful in uniting their people.

4. Describe the factors that may make it easier for a new prince to rule.

5. Describe the weakness Machiavelli sees with using mercenaries as the primary military strength of the prince.

6. Briefly write down how Machiavelli describes Agathocles of Sicily.

7. How did Cesare Borgia hold onto power in Romagna?

8. What value does Machiavelli put on his gift to Prince Lorenzo de Medici?

9. How does Machiavelli distinguish between proper and improper use of cruelty?

10. If a hereditary prince loses his dominion in war, will he be able to regain his former position? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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