This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Book Three, The Examples of Rome's Great Men, Reform, Security, and the Elimination of Rivals, On Conspiracies, The Need of Adaptation to Environment.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Machiavelli claim to be the cause of Princes losing inherited power?
(a) Their rejection of laws and ancient institutions.
(b) Arrogance.
(c) Indifference to their Principality.
(d) Incompetence.

2. What does Machiavelli identify as the cause of using dishonorable words against an enemy?
(a) Poor military tactics of the enemy.
(b) False hopes brought by victory.
(c) Poor discipline in the army.
(d) Corruption that leads to an enemy's defeat.

3. Reviewing earlier chapters of "The Discourses", why would Machiavelli consider long wars in foreign lands important?
(a) Because long wars give Nobles an opportunity for Nobles to encourage Plebes to perform glorious works for the Republic.
(b) Because Machiavelli considers fighting wars and building empires to be signs of virtuous leaders.
(c) Because Machiavelli suggested long wars helped to keep Republics united.
(d) Because long wars assures that poverty will be maintained for everyone in the Republic.

4. What do fertile areas offer to those who settle there according to Machiavelli?
(a) The means by which a city can grow and have the ability to defend themselves.
(b) The ability to affect the economy of sterile areas.
(c) Raw materials that can be sent to sterile areas for manufacturing and refinement.
(d) Resources that will sustain a growing population.

5. What are reasons Machiavelli cited for a group of people leaving their native country to seek a new home?
(a) Overcrowding and social unrest.
(b) Pestilence, famine or war.
(c) Family strife and lack of work.
(d) Racial conflict and economic injustice.