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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What was the motivation for Machiavelli to write THE PRINCE?
(a) He wanted Prince Lorenzo de Medici to employ him.
(b) He wanted to become a prince.
(c) He wanted to start a revolution.
(d) He wanted to become a famous author.

2. Who was responsible for weakening the power of Colonna and Orsini, the barons of Rome?
(a) Charles VIII of France.
(b) Remiro d'Orco.
(c) King Louis VII.
(d) Cesare Borgia.

3. In THE PRINCE, why does Machiavelli deal only with dominions and not republics?
(a) Dominions are much larger than republics.
(b) There were no republics in his day.
(c) He thought dominions were much harder to keep.
(d) He wrote about republics in another work.

4. What does Machiavelli say his desire is for Prince Lorenzo?
(a) That he sets up a completely new form of government.
(b) That he attain all the merits he deserves.
(c) That he recognizes Machiavelli's genius.
(d) That he not become a tyrant.

5. What does Machiavelli say was the real cause of Cesare Borgia's ultimate failure?
(a) His bad choices of political allies.
(b) His opposition from the new Pope after the death of Alexander IV.
(c) His lack of knowledge of what to do after his father's death.
(d) His ill health after the death of his father.

Short Answer Questions

1. What happened when Rome tried to use the same methods the Spartans had used with Greece?

2. How can a prince deal with the people when they see their lands burning outside the city walls?

3. How does Machiavelli say Agathocles became Prince of Syracuse?

4. What is the advantage of the prince selected by the people?

5. What advantage does Machiavelli point out for Princes who rule hereditary dominions?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the difference between a principality established by the nobles and one set up by the commoners?

2. Explain why Machiavelli does not speak about Republics in THE PRINCE.

3. Explain the customary way to seek the favor and audience of a prince.

4. Briefly write down how Machiavelli describes Agathocles of Sicily.

5. Describe the reasons Machiavelli says the German cities are so secure.

6. Why is it easier to rule a princedom than it is to govern a state or republic?

7. How does Machiavelli distinguish between proper and improper use of cruelty?

8. How does Machiavelli explain a man of his common social standing being qualified to advise a prince?

9. Describe the conditions that made it possible for Moses, Romulus, Cyrus, and Theseus to be successful in uniting their people.

10. Explain how Machiavelli says Cesare Borgia came to power.

(see the answer keys)

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