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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Book One, The Development of Rome's Constitution, The Use and Abuse of Dictatorship, The Road to Ruin, Sundry Reflections Based on the Decemvirate.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why does Machiavelli suggest that those who have received great rewards should not be spared punishments for acting badly?
(a) Because doing so helps the Republic remain free for a long time.
(b) Because doing so helps to find the most ardent supporters of the Prince.
(c) Because doing so keeps the most famous citizens obedient to the Prince.
(d) Because doing so gives the Prince the opportunity to prove his harshness.

2. What historical records did Machiavelli use to support his point for keeping two important items out of peril?
(a) Historical records of military tactics.
(b) Historical records of Tullus and Metius.
(c) Historical records of Hannibal and England.
(d) Historical records of Rome and France.

3. What does Machiavelli claim causes ingratitude from a conquered citizenry?
(a) Treating conquered citizens harshly.
(b) Taking conquered citizens into slavery.
(c) When the conquerors remove freedoms that the citizens knew before being conquered.
(d) Taking the property of conquered citizens.

4. According to Machiavelli, what caused the Roman Republic to form?
(a) Class warfare between the patricians and the plebes.
(b) Trade agreements between cities with resources and cities with technologies.
(c) Political rivalries between powerful generals.
(d) Economic agreements between fertile cities.

5. What does Machiavelli predict will come to Republics that do not provide for dictatorships or powerful authorities in times of urgent perils?
(a) They will always be ruined in grave incidents.
(b) A Republican government will always move in the benefit of everyone dependent on them.
(c) The trust leaders show in the people will inspire them to overcome the peril.
(d) The gathering of officials will paralyze the Republic in debate.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to Machiavelli, what type of people seek what office to cause a city to become corrupt?

2. What are reasons Machiavelli cited for a group of people leaving their native country to seek a new home?

3. Why does Machiavelli recommend that those who want to reform a city should retain the appearance of the institutions they want to reform?

4. What are the two means that Machiavelli identifies as how laws are developed in cities at the beginning of Section 2, Book One.

5. 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?

(see the answer key)

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