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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, Sundry Reflections on the Kings of Rome, The Introduction of New Forms of Government, Ingratitude.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What can be inferred of Machiavelli's view of freedom based upon reading view of weak and strong Princes?
(a) That Machiavelli is focused on keeping cities free from outside influences rather than individual freedom.
(b) That Machiavelli considered civil rights and individual liberties indispensable to the strength of a city.
(c) That Machiavelli considers freedom only suited to those who can earn it or buy it.
(d) That Machiavelli uses the term freedom in reference to the actions of Princes only.

2. What do fertile areas offer to those who settle there according to Machiavelli?
(a) The ability to affect the economy of sterile areas.
(b) Raw materials that can be sent to sterile areas for manufacturing and refinement.
(c) Resources that will sustain a growing population.
(d) The means by which a city can grow and have the ability to defend themselves.

3. What was the inspiration for Machiavelli's "The Discourses"?
(a) Machiavelli's interest in forms of government.
(b) Machiavelli's desire to guide politicians to serve the public needs.
(c) Machiavelli's fascination for power.
(d) Livy's account of the history of Rome written around 25 B.C.

4. What is the main point Machiavelli investigates as he prepares to discuss the affects of strong Princes and weak Princes?
(a) How strict power eliminates corruption and maintains freedom.
(b) Whether a free state can exist without laws.
(c) Whether a free state (government) can exist in a city that is corrupted.
(d) Whether a free state can exist with virtuous Princes.

5. What does Machiavelli consider prudence in a Prince or a King?
(a) Knowing that the enemy of his enemy is his friend.
(b) In times of peace not neglecting the arrangements of war.
(c) Keeping friends close and enemies closer.
(d) Picking battles that are important enough to fight and small enough to win.

Short Answer Questions

1. From what did Machiavelli develop the information that he wrote into "The Discourses"?

2. What are three reasons that Machiavelli gives for cities becoming unhappy?

3. 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?

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

5. What did Machiavelli suggest is the advantage of settling in areas that were "sterile" (barren)?

(see the answer key)

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