This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Book Three, The Examples of Rome's Great Men, Reform, Security, and the Elimination of Rivals, On Conspiracies, The Need of Adaptation to Environment.

Multiple Choice Questions

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

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

3. In Book 1, Section 46, Machiavelli credits the ruin of Republics on citizens who jump from one ambition to another. What was the phrase that Sallust put in the mouth of Caesar that explains how such ambitions begin?
(a) "Vini. Vidi. Vici."
(b) "I see the better things, and approve; I follow the worse."
(c) "Beware the Ides of March."
(d) "All evil examples have their origins in good beginnings."

4. How does Machiavelli recommend a Republic deal with enemies that spring up within an empire?
(a) He advocates smearing them with public proclamations about the threat they pose.
(b) He recommends that efforts be made to temporize (compromise) them rather than crush them.
(c) Princes should name appoint them to offices to leave their actions open to public scrutiny.
(d) He advises Princes to allow his supporters to conspire to assassinate the enemies.

5. In what cases does Machiavelli endorse acting foolishly?
(a) To confuse political enemies.
(b) To confuse enemies at war.
(c) To please a powerful Prince.
(d) To Amuse the Nobles.