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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. Why does Machiavelli say that auxiliary forces are more dangerous than mercenaries?
(a) Auxilaries need less time and opportunity to move against the ruler that employed them.
(b) Auxiliary forces may be recalled if their home dominion is attacked.
(c) Mercenaries can all speak the language of the princedom.
(d) Auxiliary forces are not considered deserters if they run from war.

2. What response does a prince receive if he is seen as fickle, effeminate, cowardly, frivolous, or irresolute?
(a) None.
(b) Admiration.
(c) Contempt.
(d) Strong support.

3. Why should a new prince not disarm his people?
(a) Having arms is a basic human right.
(b) It shows that he either distrusts the people or fears them.
(c) Disarmed people cannot protect their prince.
(d) It gives the people added duties and importance.

4. What does Machiavelli suggest will be the reaction of the people if he is greedy and seizes property and women?
(a) They will think he is a just ruler.
(b) They will become like him.
(c) They will hate him.
(d) They will support him.

5. How does Machiavelli justify his position that a prince is not duty bound to keep his word?
(a) He says that a prince should always change his mind about everything until he gets all the facts.
(b) He says that people always believe everything a prince says, so he can say what he pleases.
(c) He says men are basically self-centered and will not keep their word, so the prince is not obligated to do so.
(d) He says it is the only way to keep the people satisfied that he knows what he is doing.

Short Answer Questions

1. How is a prince ultimately judged?

2. What causes the people to begin to support the new prince?

3. What dichotomy does Machiavelli present regarding goodness and vices in a prince?

4. What is the best type of mind Machiavelli says is needed for a strong prince?

5. When rule by law is ineffective, what does Machiavelli advise the prince to use?

Short Essay Questions

1. Outline Machiavelli's position of honesty in a prince.

2. How does Machiavelli tell the prince to avoid assassination attempts against him?

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

4. Describe Machiavelli's position on fortresses.

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

6. Explain how Machiavelli sees Utopian ideas of principalities and republics.

7. Why does Machiavelli caution against disarming the people of a conquered principality?

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

9. How does Machiavelli disagree with those who believe everything is controlled by God and Fortune.

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

(see the answer keys)

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