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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.
Short Answer Questions
1. What is an obvious counterpoint to Machiavelli's assertion to the benefits of the power of the Caesars to the Roman Empire?
2. How did Machiavelli begin the preface to "The Discourses"?
3. What do fertile areas offer to those who settle there according to Machiavelli?
4. How does Machiavelli recommend a Republic deal with enemies that spring up within an empire?
5. What was the inspiration for Machiavelli's "The Discourses"?
Short Essay Questions
1. Why does Machiavelli disagree with Plutarch's claim that Rome acquired its Empire more by good Fortune than by Virtu?
2. Why did Machiavelli praise the Plebes for refusing to choose their peers for Tribunes for which the Nobility allowed Plebes candidacy?
3. What are the two reasons that Machiavelli gives for his opinion that the courts (Faculty of Accusing) are the most necessary and useful authority to guard liberty in a City?
4. Why does Machiavelli challenge Cities to punish citizens with respected reputations when they commit wrong acts?
5. What two methods did Machiavelli identify that Roman Nobility drew honor from the Plebes?
6. What acts by governing officials does Machiavelli consider "pernicious" or damaging to the authority of the government?
7. Why did Machiavelli consider the naming of a Caesar (dictator) over Rome was beneficial to the Empire?
8. What are the three types of state that Machiavelli detailed and by what name are they known today?
9. What does Machiavelli mean when he uses the term "virtu" for a Prince?
10. In the title of Book 1, Section 8, what does Machiavelli mean with the phrase, "...so much so calumnies are pernicious...?"
Essay Topics
Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:
Essay Topic 1
In Book 1, Section 46, Machiavelli applauds the Roman Plebs for having the wisdom not to elect Plebs to the position of Tribunes. Then in Book 1, Section 47 he applauds the Nobles for the methods they used to manage the decision of the Plebs. How does the context of Machiavelli's report in the two chapters form your opinion of Machiavelli's character, his views of freedom, and his views on corruption? Do you agree with Machiavelli's positions in the two chapters? Why or why not?
Essay Topic 2
In Book 3, Sections 14, 40, and 48, Machiavelli details the significance of using deception in battle. Compare Machiavelli's appreciation for using deception in battle to how Machiavelli recommends deception in politics to preserve the freedom of the Republic. Do you believe that Machiavelli would share you view of deceptive political practices? Why or why not? Give support for your responses with quotes from "The Discourses".
Essay Topic 3
Would Machiavelli want to affect how customs are down in Cities and families today? For what reasons would he want do to do so? What modern tools or institutions would he use? Be detailed in your responses and use statements from "The Discourses" to support your position on Machiavelli's motivations.
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This section contains 1,026 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) |
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