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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Book Two, The Growth of Rome's Empire, The Army, Its Discipline and Component Parts, The Administration of Conquered Territory and Other Problems Which Admit of No Middle Course, Mistakes Often Made in Connection With War, Rome's Dealings With Neighboring.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Machiavelli believe inspired the expansion of the Roman Empire?
(a) Harsh Captains guiding the military.
(b) Aggression and murder.
(c) Virtue.
(d) Keeping Citizens in poverty.

2. What does Machiavelli consider to be the worst example to be provided by leaders in a Republic?
(a) For leaders to neglect the ordering of an army.
(b) For leaders to avoid harsh punishments for law breakers.
(c) For leaders to choose weak captains.
(d) For leaders to make a law and refuse to observe it.

3. What is the branch of government that Machiavelli recognizes as that which most prevents or causes corruption to come over a city?
(a) The plebeian branch.
(b) The legislative branch.
(c) The princes.
(d) The judicial (magistrates) branch.

4. What does Machiavelli identify as the cause of using dishonorable words against an enemy?
(a) Poor military tactics of the enemy.
(b) False hopes brought by victory.
(c) Poor discipline in the army.
(d) Corruption that leads to an enemy's defeat.

5. What does Machiavelli claim causes disunity in a Republic?
(a) Wealth and industry.
(b) Idleness and peace.
(c) Fortune and leisure.
(d) Corruption and war.

Short Answer Questions

1. Based upon Machiavelli's details, for whose benefit were the "demonstrations made to the benefit" of Plebes devoted?

2. How does Machiavelli suggest that a man with power should present himself to a city in turmoil?

3. What was an example from Roman history that Machiavelli used to suggest the Plebes possesses greater wisdom than Nobles?

4. What can be inferred of Machiavelli's idea of virtue from reading the review of the first three kings of Rome as he begins his discourse of weak Princes and excellent Princes?

5. What is an obvious counterpoint to Machiavelli's assertion to the benefits of the power of the Caesars to the Roman Empire?

(see the answer key)

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