A History Of Strategy Chapter 2
.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which two writers of classical antiquity does van Creveld describe as being "too inclined towards the legendary, the supernatural, and the moralistic" for modern scientific tastes?
- A.
Xenophon and Polybius
- B.
Thucydides and Sallust
- C.
Herodotus and Livy
- D.
Caesar and Josephus
Correct Answer
C. Herodotus and LivyExplanation
Van Creveld describes Herodotus and Livy as being "too inclined towards the legendary, the supernatural, and the moralistic" for modern scientific tastes. This suggests that their works may contain elements of myth, folklore, and moral lessons that are not considered objective or factual by scientific standards.Rate this question:
-
- 2.
What is absolutely vital in military science, as demonstrated by Aeneas the Tactitian in the fourth century BC?
- A.
Technology
- B.
Morale
- C.
A systematic approach
- D.
Attention to detail
Correct Answer
D. Attention to detailExplanation
Aeneas the Tactician, a military strategist in the fourth century BC, demonstrated the importance of attention to detail in military science. This means that paying close attention to every small aspect of a military operation is crucial for success. By meticulously considering and addressing all the details, such as logistics, terrain, and enemy positions, Aeneas was able to develop effective strategies and achieve victory in battle. This underscores the significance of careful planning and thorough analysis in military science.Rate this question:
-
- 3.
What is the main subject of Asclepiodotus's Outline of Tactics?
- A.
The Macedonian brigade
- B.
The Greek phalanx
- C.
The Roman legion
- D.
The Persian regiment
Correct Answer
B. The Greek phalanxExplanation
Asclepiodotus's Outline of Tactics focuses on the main subject of the Greek phalanx. This suggests that the book discusses the tactics, strategies, and organization of the Greek phalanx, which was a crucial military formation in ancient Greece. The book may provide insights into how the phalanx operated and its role in ancient warfare.Rate this question:
-
- 4.
Of what was Onasander, the author of Strategikos, primarily a student?
- A.
Philosophy
- B.
Theology
- C.
Medicine
- D.
War
Correct Answer
A. PhilosophyExplanation
Onasander, the author of Strategikos, was primarily a student of philosophy. This can be inferred from the fact that he wrote a book on military strategy, which suggests that he had a deep understanding of the philosophical principles that underlie strategic thinking and decision-making. Additionally, studying philosophy would have provided Onasander with the critical thinking skills and analytical mindset necessary for developing effective military strategies. Therefore, it can be concluded that philosophy was his primary area of study.Rate this question:
-
- 5.
What does van Creveld say is the best translation for the Strategemata?
- A.
Strategic games
- B.
Tricks of the trade
- C.
Tactical philosophy
- D.
Operational art
Correct Answer
B. Tricks of the tradeExplanation
Van Creveld suggests that the best translation for the Strategemata is "Tricks of the trade." This implies that the book contains a collection of cunning strategies and tactics used in warfare, providing insights and knowledge on how to outsmart and deceive the enemy. The term "Tricks of the trade" suggests that the book offers practical advice and techniques for achieving success in military operations.Rate this question:
-
- 6.
Who did Machiavelli consider indispensable?
- A.
Vegetius
- B.
Valentian
- C.
Maurice
- D.
Frontinus
Correct Answer
D. FrontinusExplanation
Machiavelli considered Frontinus indispensable.Rate this question:
-
- 7.
To which Byzantine emperor is the Strategikon attributed?
- A.
Maurice
- B.
Belisarius
- C.
Leo the Wise
- D.
Constantine
Correct Answer
A. MauriceExplanation
The Strategikon is attributed to Maurice, who was a Byzantine emperor. This military manual was written during his reign and provides valuable insights into Byzantine military tactics and strategies. Maurice is known for his reforms in the Byzantine army, and the Strategikon is considered one of his significant contributions to military literature.Rate this question:
-
- 8.
What was the preferred form of military literature of the barbarians of Western Europe?
- A.
Epic poems
- B.
Descriptive haiku
- C.
Narrative songs
- D.
Expostulatory chants
Correct Answer
C. Narrative songsExplanation
The preferred form of military literature for the barbarians of Western Europe was narrative songs. Narrative songs were a popular way for the barbarians to recount their military exploits and honor their warriors. These songs would often tell stories of battles, heroic deeds, and the bravery of their warriors. They served as a form of oral history and helped to preserve the cultural and military traditions of the barbarian tribes. This form of military literature allowed the barbarians to pass down their stories from generation to generation and celebrate their military achievements.Rate this question:
-
- 9.
What is an important difference between the military works of classical antiquity and the Chinese classics?
- A.
They are focused on tactics rather than strategy.
- B.
They do not provide a coherent philosophy of war.
- C.
They are written by theorists with no experience of war.
- D.
They do not provide any meaningful advice for modern generals.
Correct Answer
B. They do not provide a coherent philosophy of war.Explanation
The important difference between the military works of classical antiquity and the Chinese classics is that the latter do not provide a coherent philosophy of war. While the military works of classical antiquity, such as Sun Tzu's "The Art of War," offer strategic insights and guidance for warfare, the Chinese classics lack a comprehensive and organized philosophy of war. This means that they may not provide a systematic approach or a clear set of principles for conducting military operations.Rate this question:
-
- 10.
What remained, for over a thousand years, the most popular military handbook of all?
- A.
Commentarii by Caesar
- B.
Strategikon by Maurice
- C.
Epitome Rei Militaris by Vegetius
- D.
Strategemata by Frontinus
Correct Answer
C. Epitome Rei Militaris by VegetiusExplanation
Epitome Rei Militaris by Vegetius remained the most popular military handbook for over a thousand years. This book, written by Vegetius in the 4th century, provided a comprehensive guide to military strategy, tactics, and organization. It covered various aspects of warfare, including training, equipment, and the importance of discipline in the military. The book was highly influential and widely studied by military leaders and scholars throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Its enduring popularity and relevance in military circles make it the correct answer to the question.Rate this question:
-
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
-
Current Version
-
Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
May 25, 2015Quiz Created by
Voxday
Back to top