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 did Machiavelli suggest is the advantage of settling in areas that were "sterile" (barren)?
(a) Barren areas stand at crossroads between fertile areas so they can control trade between prosperous cities.
(b) The poverty of resources would require those living there to have less cause for discord.
(c) Residents of sterile areas become more creative and develop technologies that can be sold to more fertile areas.
(d) The isolation from more fertile areas allow for greater freedom.

2. Why does Machiavelli recommend that those who want to reform a city should retain the appearance of the institutions they want to reform?
(a) Because keeping the appearance of those institutions assures a smooth transition of power.
(b) Because keeping the appearance of those institutions helps to hide the true agenda of the Prince.
(c) Because the general masses are satisfied with appearances and are moved by things as they appear rather than by the way they operate (perception is reality).
(d) Because keeping the appearance of those institutions helps to keep important advisers within the circle of government.

3. What does Machiavelli consider an important tool in maintaining the order of a Republic?
(a) Proper administration of rewards and punishments.
(b) Wars that keep the citizenry focused on supporting the City.
(c) The ability to control the perceptions of citizens.
(d) Fear of harsh administrators.

4. What did Machiavelli cite as the method that Rome used to maintain its freedom?
(a) It continued to make new laws and new institutions to confront corruption.
(b) It made frequent use of elections to allow the citizens to influence government.
(c) It made public displays of punishments for lawbreakers.
(d) It continually sent soldiers to expand its empire.

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?
(a) The he considers moral integrity to be the primary virtue for Princes.
(b) That he believes being ferocious and warlike is an indispensible virtue for a Prince.
(c) That he considers bureaucratic expertise to be an important virtue for Princes.
(d) That he considers the most weak Princes to practice ambivalence to virtue.