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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 does Machiavelli suggest is wrong with concepts of an ideal princedom or republic.
(a) It has no basis in reality.
(b) It is not useful as a mental exercise.
(c) It can only be accomplished by a pure leader.
(d) More people have not considered the concepts.

2. What does Machiavelli say is the problem with remaining neutral between two warring sides?
(a) It cuts off all diplomatic relations.
(b) It is impossible to do.
(c) It gives the appearance of self-importance.
(d) It loses former allies.

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

4. What, according to Machiavelli, is better than actually having all the good qualities of leadership?
(a) Having the appearance of being religious.
(b) Keeping all promises.
(c) Never forgetting anything said in the past.
(d) Really understanding the problems of the people.

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

Short Answer Questions

1. Which statement is true according to Machiavelli?

2. Who does Machiavelli cite as an example of generosity that ended badly?

3. How does Machiavelli say a prince should keep the attention of the people?

4. How does Machiavelli classify auxiliary troops?

5. Which examples does Machiavelli use to support the idea of not being overly generous?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Machiavelli say is the first estimate of a prince as a ruler? Why?

2. Discuss Machiavelli's discourse on flattery.

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

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

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

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

7. Describe Machiavelli's position on fortresses.

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

9. Why does Machiavelli maintain that it is not possible for a prince to embody only good qualities?

10. What is Machiavelli's advice regarding unasked for counsel?

(see the answer keys)

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