The Discourses Short Question Test Answer Key

Short Answer Key

Book One, The Development of Rome's Constitution, Preface, The Best Form of Government, Religion, The Transition From Servitude to Freedom

1. What was the inspiration for Machiavelli's "The Discourses"?

Livy's account of the history of Rome written around 25 B.C.

2. How did Machiavelli begin the preface to "The Discourses"?

As a letter to two political thinkers from Florence.

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

From long experience and continuous study of worldly affairs.

4. To what does Machiavelli compare great kingdoms and republics from history?

To great works of antique art that have been found and preserved.

5. According to Machiavelli in Section 1 of Book One, who are the two types of people who build cities?

Men born in their location or foreigners.

6. What are two reasons Machiavelli gives for foreign forces building a city?

To...
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