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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How do the Medici come to power?

2. What does Machiavelli suggest makes for peace in a dominion?

3. Aside from humble beginnings, what does Machiavelli say that Agathocles and Oliverotto have in common?

4. What does Machiavelli say are the two foundations necessary for a princedom?

5. What one thing does Machiavelli insist that every prince needs?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What does Machiavelli mean when he says that dominions are obtained by either good Fortune or merit?

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

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

5. Tell how Machiavelli suggests it is easiest to control a conquered state.

6. Explain how, according to Machiavelli, Alexander the Great was able to establish a government in Persia that lasted long after his untimely death.

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

8. How does a prince maintain control inside a sieged city when the citizens see their homes and farms being burned outside the city?

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay expressing your opinion on Machiavelli's statement that if a prince (or politician) establishes his authority, the means he uses will always be judged honorable. Use Cesare Borgia and Sadam Hussein as examples in your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Write your opinion on the debate over whether or not religion has a place in state government. In preparation, review Chapter 11 on Ecclesiastical Princedoms.

Essay Topic 3

Write a short story about an imaginary meeting between Machiavelli and the Godfather.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 998 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample