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. Of what should Princes be most ashamed in Machiavelli's view?
(a) Missing opportunities to conquer other cities.
(b) Consuming his wealth in debauchery.
(c) Being discovered to be self-absorbed and not devoted to building the strength of their cities.
(d) Lacking their own soldiers for defense and offense.

2. What is an obvious counterpoint to Machiavelli's assertion to the benefits of the power of the Caesars to the Roman Empire?
(a) The cost of Empire caused hazards to gather domestically as well as throughout the Empire.
(b) Without the Caesars, provinces of the Empire would have moved to avoid hazards.
(c) If the Nobles of Rome had not sought to possess distant provinces, there would have been no need for Caesars.
(d) Without the empire is it possible that the hazards the empire faced would not have materialized.

3. What is the branch of government that Machiavelli recognizes as that which most prevents or causes corruption to come over a city?
(a) The judicial (magistrates) branch.
(b) The plebeian branch.
(c) The legislative branch.
(d) The princes.

4. What, according to Machiavelli in Book , 1 Section 38, is the fate of irresolute Republics?
(a) They face invasion, destruction and anhilation.
(b) They cannot settle conflicts except with force because their weakness prevents them from resolving doubts over issues.
(c) They will eventually fade away and reemerge as a tyranny.
(d) They have no alternative but to join alliances with powerful Republics that will take control of them.

5. According to Machiavelli, what type of people seek what office to cause a city to become corrupt?
(a) Generals seek to become senators.
(b) The rich and powerful, rather than the virtuous, seek to become judges (magistrates).
(c) The working poor seek to become plebes.
(d) Weak and dependent people seek to become senators.