This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Book Three, The Example of Rome's Great Men, Salus Populi, Suprema Lex, Further Reflections Based on the Samnite Wars, The Preservation of Freedom in a Republic.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why does Machiavelli consider it impossible to establish a perpetual Republic?
(a) Because all the ruling Nobles will have to be sent to colonies.
(b) Because a Republic must always send its best men to war.
(c) Because in a thousand unforeseen ways its ruin may be caused.
(d) Because a Republic will always have ambitious men.

2. What does Machiavelli consider to be the worst example to be provided by leaders in a Republic?
(a) For leaders to neglect the ordering of an army.
(b) For leaders to avoid harsh punishments for law breakers.
(c) For leaders to make a law and refuse to observe it.
(d) For leaders to choose weak captains.

3. What does Machiavelli write will prevent a bad Citizen from working evil in a Republic?
(a) The absence of corruption.
(b) General disregard for their reputation.
(c) Conspiracy against the bad Citizen.
(d) The government taking steps to temporize the bad Citizen.

4. How did Machiavelli begin the preface to "The Discourses"?
(a) With advice to two friends on how to keep their friends close and their enemies closer.
(b) As a letter to two political thinkers from Florence.
(c) As a cynical commentary to the weakness of leaders of his time.
(d) As a warning to future generations of the tenuous nature of freedom.

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