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 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 without laws.
(b) Whether a free state can exist with virtuous Princes.
(c) Whether a free state (government) can exist in a city that is corrupted.
(d) How strict power eliminates corruption and maintains freedom.

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 Rome and France.
(c) Historical records of Hannibal and England.
(d) Historical records of Tullus and Metius.

3. What are the two means that Machiavelli identifies as how laws are developed in cities at the beginning of Section 2, Book One.
(a) At one time by one man and by chance at several times according to events.
(b) By war and by peace.
(c) Through Princes or through Republics.
(d) Through dominion of the wealthy or through bartering agreements.

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

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

Short Answer Questions

1. 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?

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

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

4. What does Machiavelli suggest causes corruption?

5. What is a Prince as Machiavelli uses the term?

(see the answer key)

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