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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Book 1, On The Nature of War : Chapter 2, Purpose & Means, On Military Genius & Danger in War.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Clausewitz mean by "Destroying the enemy?"
(a) Physically destroying all of the enemies forces.
(b) Destroying the enemy's reputation.
(c) Capturing the commanding officers of the enemy.
(d) Put the enemy's forces in a condition so they can no longer fight.

2. How does Clausewitz qualify the task of creating a scientific theory for the conduct of war?
(a) Difficult.
(b) Easy.
(c) Annoying.
(d) Impossible.

3. What event does Clausewitz fear would make his book liable to endless misinterpretation?
(a) The invention of the Gatling gun.
(b) Releasing the book within his lifetime.
(c) His early death.
(d) The introduction of women in the armed forces.

4. According to Clausewitz, what general would never have prevailed had he fought like Charles XII?
(a) Napoleon.
(b) Frederick the Great.
(c) Charles XIII.
(d) Louis the XIV.

5. According to Clausewitz, what can you expect if you demand a small penalty from your opponent?
(a) Him to give it to you without a fight.
(b) Him to fight only one battle.
(c) Him to fight to the last man.
(d) Him to not try to fight you hard.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Clausewitz think of wars between civilized nations compared to savages?

2. How does Clausewitz define the nature of war at the beginning of Book 1, Chapter 2?

3. For Clausewitz, when should defeating the enemy not be the aim of a war?

4. What theory does Clausewitz think many people have difficulty with?

5. Why don't civilized nations execute their prisoners according to Clausewitz?

(see the answer key)

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