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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. How does Machiavelli say a prince should keep the attention of the people?
(a) By explaining everything to the people.
(b) By using his nobles to speak to the people.
(c) By taking bold actions.
(d) By keeping a low profile.

2. What Roman Emperor does Machiavelli cite as an example of being both a lion and a fox?
(a) Marc Anthony.
(b) Septimius Severus.
(c) Antonius Severus.
(d) Julius Caesar.

3. What does Machiavelli suggest is the best fortress for a prince?
(a) A palace in the center of the city.
(b) A palace surrounded by a wide moat.
(c) Military barracks surrounding his palace.
(d) Favorable public opinion.

4. Who can successfully gain the reputation for generosity but not ruin himself in the process?
(a) A prince who goes to war to create jobs for his subjects.
(b) A prince who gives away someone else's money.
(c) A prince who only gives when he can expect a generous return.
(d) A prince who has unlimited resources.

5. Although Machiavelli says that Pope Julius II was impetuous in all he did, still he succeeded. Why?
(a) He relied on God to keep him safe.
(b) Because of his successes, he always looked for new ways of doing things.
(c) Fate caused many changes during his time.
(d) His actions fit the times.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why should a new prince not disarm his people?

2. How does Machiavelli say a private citizen might make himself a prince?

3. How does Machiavelli define avarice?

4. What historical example does Machiavelli give to show how a military should be organized?

5. What must a prince always do concerning advice?

Short Essay Questions

1. When there is peace outside the principality, what does Machiavelli caution against?

2. What is Machiavelli's position on neutrality? Explain.

3. What kind of reading does Machiavelli advise for the prince? Why?

4. What warnings does Machiavelli give regarding the generosity of a prince.

5. Explain Machiavelli's views on rewards and punishments.

6. Describe Machiavelli's position on fortresses.

7. How does Machiavelli evaluate the three types of mind he says princes may have?

8. Explain how Machiavelli sees the weakness of using auxiliary forces as a military for a princedom.

9. How does Machiavelli suggest a prince can be cruel and still be respected?

10. How does Machiavelli say a prince should be like a fox and a lion?

(see the answer keys)

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