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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. Why does Machiavelli not use Agathocles as an example of meritorious rise to power?

2. What are the two types of government identified by Machiavelli?

3. Why is Niccolo Machiavelli suddenly out of a job?

4. What example does Machiavelli give of a prince who had the support of his people and was able to withstand invasion?

5. How does Machiavelli define a new princedom or dominion?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Machiavelli explain a man of his common social standing being qualified to advise a prince?

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

3. Describe the factors that may make it easier for a new prince to rule.

4. How are Ecclesiastical dominions so easily maintained?

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

6. How does Machiavelli say that hereditary States are the easier ones to control?

7. To what does Machiavelli ascribe his present circumstances as he writes the book?

8. Why should a new prince not set up a system of magistrates from among the people?

9. What are the difficulties new princes face when setting up a new government?

10. If a hereditary prince loses his dominion in war, will he be able to regain his former position? Explain.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay explaining how Machiavelli's writing might be different if he were writing today.

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 an essay on the Medici family returning to power and what it meant to Machiavelli.

(see the answer keys)

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