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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 see as an insurmountable chasm?

2. What in Machiavelli's opinion is the problem with a prince being too liberal with his subjects?

3. What does Machiavelli say is the problem with remaining neutral between two warring sides?

4. What does Machiavelli mean when he says "impetuousness is better than calculation"?

5. Who can successfully gain the reputation for generosity but not ruin himself in the process?

Short Essay Questions

1. Outline Machiavelli's position of honesty in a prince.

2. How does Machiavelli say a prince should be like a fox and a lion?

3. Describe the two main reasons that a prince may be secure one day and lose his dominion the next.

4. Explain Machiavelli's views on rewards and punishments.

5. Because new princes are closely watched, what does Machiavelli say they must do?

6. How does Machiavelli suggest a prince can be cruel and still be respected?

7. Explain Machiavelli's famous statement that is is better to be feared than loved.

8. When there is peace outside the principality, what does Machiavelli caution against?

9. What kind of reading does Machiavelli advise for the prince? Why?

10. Why does Machiavelli say that war is the only art expected 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 an essay on the subject of politicians trying to please everyone to stay in power.

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,121 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample