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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. Why does Machiavelli believe the Roman Republic grew?

2. What does Machiavelli advise to Princes who desire to take something from another Prince?

3. What does Machiavelli believe comes to a good army without a good Captain?

4. What are Machiavelli's two thoughts on fortresses?

5. What does Machiavelli consider one of the most important reasons the Roman Empire was successful in expanding its borders?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Machiavelli believe is the consequence of insulting anyone with words?

2. Why does Machiavelli claim that the Senate and Plebes rose up to take control of Rome from Tarquinius Superbus ?

3. Why does Machiavelli believe, "that men born in a province observe for all time almost the same natures (Book 3, Section 43)?"

4. What are two reasons that Machiavelli claims men have a hard time changing with the times?

5. What were the two evils that Machiavelli claims came to Rome as its Empire grew in geographical size?

6. What does Machiavelli consider to be the purpose of expanding an Empire and why must a Prince be well organized in expanding it properly?

7. Why did "Captains of Fortune" favor cavalry over infantry?

8. What does Machiavelli mean when he discusses using "...deceit in the managing of a war..." and why does he consider it a glorious thing?

9. What does Machiavelli advise those who seek to change a Republic?

10. Why does Machiavelli consider towns more difficult to conquer after the Citizens have been in rebellion?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Book 3, Sections 31 and 33, Machiavelli examines the type of individual character that contributes to strong Republics and military victory. What is your view on the Machiavelli's principles regarding consistent character through favorable times and bad? On what points do you agree with the character qualities he calls "virtu" and those which he criticizes? What character qualities would you add or replace with what he calls "virtu"? Why would you make such changes?

Essay Topic 2

Machiavelli advises on dealing with evil challenging a State in Book 1, Sections 33. What does Machiavelli consider evil? Support what you find as his definition with statements from all of "The Discourses". Do you agree with his assessments? Why or why not? In your response give documented support from other political or moral thinkers.

Essay Topic 3

Machiavelli began his observations of war in Book 2. Find Machiavelli's views of three different ways wars benefit a Republic. Respond to his positions with your own views. Support your views with the type of historical documentation Machiavelli used to support his positions. Do not limit yourself to the history of Rome.

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