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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 will be an advantage to a prince who lost his dominion by force of arms?

2. Cesare Borgia was helped in his drive for power by his father. Who was he?

3. What, according to Machiavelli, will always make a prince's position insecure?

4. What ancient example does Machiavelli use to illustrate the rise to power through criminal actions?

5. What is the advantage of the prince selected by the people?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

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

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

6. How did Cesare Borgia hold onto power in Romagna?

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

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

9. What advantage does the hereditary prince have in maintaining his dominion?

10. What value does Machiavelli put on his gift to Prince Lorenzo de Medici?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay about why you think many people have not liked Machiavelli's book, THE PRINCE.

Essay Topic 2

In one typed, double-spaced page, identify those Machiavellian ideas that might work in a democracy.

Essay Topic 3

Machiavelli favored the death penalty. Write an essay expressing your opinion on that subject.

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This section contains 963 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample