The Discourses Quiz

Take our free The Discourses quiz below, with 25 multiple choice questions that help you test your knowledge. Determine which chapters, themes and styles you already know and what you need to study for your upcoming essay, midterm, or final exam. Take the free quiz now!

How does the institution that makes men "harsh or effeminate" influence them, according to Machiavelli? (from Book Three, The Example of Rome's Great Men, Salus Populi, Suprema Lex, Further Reflections Based on the Samnite Wars, The Preservation of Freedom in a Republic)

Because, "The Senate either deliberates or declares war."

Because, "The magistrates either declare punishments or delays judgment."

Because, "It is very important that a young man of tender years begins to hear the good and bad of a thing."

Because, "The Plebs either prepare for virtus of war or fall to corruption."

What are the two ways that Republics are altered that Machiavelli examines? (from Book Three, The Examples of Rome's Great Men, Reform, Security, and the Elimination of Rivals, On Conspiracies, The Need of Adaptation to Environment)

With war and money.

With natural disaster and new religions.

With bloodshed and without bloodshed.

With free press and elections.

What does Machiavelli claim causes unity in a Republic? (from Book Two, The Growth of Rome's Empire, The Army, Its Discipline and Component Parts, The Administration of Conquered Territory and Other Problems Which Admit of No Middle Course, Mistakes Often Made in Connection With War, Rome's Dealings With Neighboring)

Fear and war.

Idleness and peace.

Wealth and industry.

Fortune and leisure.

For what reason does Machiavelli advise people in power to, "...lay aside personal hatred?" (from Book Three, The Example of Rome's Great Men, Salus Populi, Suprema Lex, Further Reflections Based on the Samnite Wars, The Preservation of Freedom in a Republic)

To serve the freedom of the Self.

To prepare for war.

For the good of the country.

To build good families.

What opportunities come to Princes who take Machiavelli's advice in acting to take something from another Prince. (from Book Three, The Example of Rome's Great Men, Salus Populi, Suprema Lex, Further Reflections Based on the Samnite Wars, The Preservation of Freedom in a Republic)

The Prince who is being assaulted will be imprisoned.

The Prince who is being assualted will not be able to consult his Captains.

The Prince who is being assaulted will have their army away from the City.

The Prince who is being assaulted might make decisions fueled by anger.