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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. Machiavelli says that tensions between the nobles and commoners may result in a principality, a republic, or what other condition?

2. What was Machiavelli's method for learning political government?

3. What is the Renaissance Italian's view of political misfortune?

4. What themes does Machiavelli introduce in Chapter One?

5. How does Machiavelli think New Dominions were formed?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. At the time Machiavelli is writing, he recognizes only two types of existing government. Explain each.

4. Briefly write down how Machiavelli describes Agathocles of Sicily.

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

6. What are the two types of princedoms as identified by Machiavelli?

7. Explain why Machiavelli believes a newly conquered territory is harder to govern than a hereditary dominion.

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

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay answering and discussing the question, Is honesty always the best policy?

Essay Topic 2

Write a story about a young person's problem when two of his or her friends are fighting.

Essay Topic 3

Using the example of Cesare Borgia, write an essay entitled ABSOLUTE POWER CORRUPTS ABSOLUTELY.

(see the answer keys)

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