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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 20.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why should a prince keep down factions in his princedom?
(a) The prince must decide which faction is stronger and play up to them.
(b) The weaker faction will side with an outside enemy, and the stronger will not be able to hold out.
(c) People enjoy the debates and work production slows down.
(d) Factions keep him tied up as a judge all the time.

2. How does Machiavelli classify auxiliary troops?
(a) As cheaper than hiring independent mercenaries.
(b) As the worst possible choice for a prince to make.
(c) As the best possible choice for a prince to make.
(d) As extremely reliable during a crisis.

3. Those who were viewed with suspicion at the beginning of a princedom usually become the most loyal subjects. Why?
(a) They work hard to gain the approval of the prince.
(b) They never did anything to cause distrust in the first place.
(c) The prince will use them for unpopular tasks.
(d) The prince was a poor judge of character in the beginning.

4. What historical example does Machiavelli give to show how a military should be organized?
(a) The last days of the Roman Empire.
(b) Darius, King of Persia.
(c) Phillip, father of Alexander the Great.
(d) Sparticus and the Roman slaves.

5. How does Machiavelli define auxiliary forces?
(a) The best insurance a prince has for his safety.
(b) Those borrowed from other principalities to wage war.
(c) Women mercenaries who fight along side of men.
(d) Extra manpower that may be called to active duty during a war.

Short Answer Questions

1. What combination of circumstances does Machiavelli identify in men like Cyrus, Romulus, and Theseus?

2. What does Machiavelli suggest is the best fortress for a prince?

3. Why does Machiavelli say that Prince Lorenzo should not be surprised at what he is saying about new princedoms?

4. What message does a prince give his subjects if he builds a fortress for himself?

5. After gaining dominions by merit, how does Machiavelli say a prince can hold his new territories?

(see the answer key)

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