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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. What does Machiavelli say about skilled mercenary captains?

2. Ending his discussion of Ecclesiastical Dominions, why is Machiavelli so circumspect about the current Pope?

3. How can a common citizen rise to political power?

4. How does Machiavelli say that those who help a prince obtain a new princedom may turn against him?

5. The cities of what country are given as good examples of fortification?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. How does Machiavelli distinguish between proper and improper use of cruelty?

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

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

5. What makes the instability of the Orsini and Cologna a constant struggle.

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

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

8. How are Ecclesiastical dominions so easily maintained?

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

10. Explain why Machiavelli does not speak about Republics in THE PRINCE.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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

Essay Topic 2

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 3

Write a paper on the influence of art during the Italian Renaissance.

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This section contains 900 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample