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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. Who does Machiavelli cite as an example of generosity that ended badly?
(a) Julius Caesar.
(b) Alexander the Great.
(c) Moses.
(d) Marc Anthony.

2. Which statement is true according to Machiavelli?
(a) Men care more about offending those they love than those they fear.
(b) It is better to be feared than loved.
(c) A prince should be quick to believe and quick to act.
(d) Men are more likely to break a promise made in fear.

3. What is more effective than honesty in a prince?
(a) Good looks.
(b) Indifference.
(c) Cunning.
(d) Generosity.

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

5. Why should a prince declare himself as for or against two warring factions?
(a) He will be able to deal with the loser.
(b) He should look like he is wiser than other princes.
(c) He will always know which side will win.
(d) He should not be seen as waivering.

Short Answer Questions

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

2. Why does Machiavelli insist that a prince recalled by the people after being conquered offers him no security?

3. What can a new prince be assured of?

4. What does Machiavelli suggest will be the reaction of the people if he is greedy and seizes property and women?

5. In his discussion of the qualities of a good leader, how does Machiavelli depart from the accepted rules?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe the two main reasons that a prince may be secure one day and lose his dominion the next.

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

3. Explain Machiavelli's famous statement that is is better to be feared than loved.

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

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

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

7. Give examples of leaders who recognized the need for their own loyal troops.

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

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

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

(see the answer keys)

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