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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. How does Machiavelli predict a citizen will conduct himself if he is not punished for his misdeeds because of his reputation for doing good deeds, according to Machiavelli.
(a) He will, in short time, become so insolent as to put an end to all civil law.
(b) He will become the most effective aide to the Prince and help expand his power over the citizens.
(c) He will eventually become overwhelmed by his conscience and slip away into obscurity.
(d) He will find ways to subvert the Prince and take his power.

2. What are two reasons Machiavelli gives for foreign forces building a city?
(a) To offer people in other lands the benefits of the existing system and to make their abilities and resources for universally beneficial.
(b) To exercise power over enemies and expand the power of an established system.
(c) To relieve existing towns of excessive inhabitants and for the defense of the country from which the forces come.
(d) To spread the culture of the homeland and use resources for financial development.

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

4. How long did Sparta peacefully exist without changing its laws, according to Machiavelli?
(a) 800 years.
(b) Through the reign of Lycurgus.
(c) 350 years.
(d) Until its domination by Rome.

5. Why does Machiavelli claim these forms of government developed?
(a) So those with wealth could protect themselves from those who had none.
(b) So those with influence could hold it without violence.
(c) To prevent people with the ability to use force from destroying each other.
(d) To provide defense for people who gathered together.

Short Answer Questions

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

2. What are the two important items that Machiavelli considers to be unwise for a Prince to put entirely into peril?

3. Why does Machiavelli suggest that those who have received great rewards should not be spared punishments for acting badly?

4. What historical records did Machiavelli use to support his point for keeping two important items out of peril?

5. What does Machiavelli consider an important tool in maintaining the order of a Republic?

(see the answer key)

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