How Well Do You Know 'Discourses on Livy' by Machiavelli?

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  • 1/15 Questions

    When was "Discourses on Livy" written and published?

    • Written in the early 16th century and published in 1531
    • Written in the late 17th century and published in 1600
    • Written in the 18th century and published in 1650
    • Written in the early 15th century and published in 1505
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About This Quiz

Welcome to the intellectual journey through the pages of Niccolò Machiavelli's "Discourses on Livy." As one of the seminal works of political philosophy, this masterpiece delves into the intricacies of governance and the rise and fall of civilizations. If you're intrigued by Machiavelli's profound musings and the historical insights he draws from Livy's monumental narrative, this quiz is tailored for you.

Machiavelli, a keen observer of political dynamics, presents a rich tapestry of ideas as he analyzes the republics of ancient Rome. The discourse navigates through the complexities of leadership, the delicate balance of power, and the timeless nature of political virtue. Whether you're a student of political science, a history enthusiast, or someone eager to explore the intellectual landscape of the Renaissance, this quiz offers a stimulating test of your knowledge.

Each question is crafted to challenge your understanding of Machiavelli's perspectives and the historical context that shaped his thoughts. Embark on this quiz to unravel the layers of Machiavelli's philosophical legacy, dissect the intricacies of republics, and appreciate the profound impact of Livy's history on political thought. Let the quest for knowledge begin!

How Well Do You Know discourses On Livy By Machiavelli? - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    In Book 3, what does Machiavelli emphasize regarding fortune and success?

    • Adapting to changing times

    • Sticking to a fixed strategy

    • Relying solely on luck

    • Avoiding any changes in approach

    Correct Answer
    A. Adapting to changing times
    Explanation
    In Book 3 Chapter 9, Machiavelli emphasizes that to have good fortune, one must match the time with their mode, adapting and changing strategies according to the circumstances and nature's forces. This underscores Machiavelli's pragmatism, advocating for flexibility and adaptability as essential qualities for political success. The emphasis on aligning one's actions with the prevailing circumstances reflects Machiavelli's nuanced understanding of the role of timing in political maneuvering.

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  • 3. 

    How does Machiavelli describe the political greatness of peoples and governments?

    • Political greatness comes and goes in cycles

    • Political greatness is constant and unchanging

    • Political greatness depends on external factors

    • Political greatness is determined by geographical location

    Correct Answer
    A. Political greatness comes and goes in cycles
    Explanation
    Machiavelli frequently describes political greatness as something that comes and goes among peoples in cycles. This cyclical view reflects his historical perspective and acknowledgment of the rise and fall of civilizations. By characterizing political greatness as dynamic and evolving, Machiavelli emphasizes the impermanence of power and the need for adaptability in political strategies. It also suggests a cautionary tone, urging leaders to recognize the changing nature of political influence.

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  • 4. 

    In the preface to Book I, why does Machiavelli mention bringing new modes and orders?

    • For the common benefit of humanity

    • To challenge the envy of men

    • To impress his friends with his intellect

    • To criticize the Italian Renaissance

    Correct Answer
    A. For the common benefit of humanity
    Explanation
    In the preface to Book I, Machiavelli mentions bringing new modes and orders for the common benefit of humanity. Despite acknowledging the potential danger of facing envy from others, he expresses a noble intent to contribute to the collective well-being. Machiavelli positions himself as a thinker willing to take risks to introduce innovative ideas, emphasizing the importance of intellectual courage in challenging conventional wisdom for the greater good.

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  • 5. 

    According to Chapter 13 in Book 3, what is more trustworthy – a good captain or a good army?

    • A good captain with time to instruct and arm

    • A strong army with a weak captain

    • A captain with an insolent army

    • A well-funded army with a head made tumultuously

    Correct Answer
    A. A good captain with time to instruct and arm
    Explanation
    Machiavelli asserts in Book 3 Chapter 13 that a good captain who has time to instruct and arm men is more trustworthy than an insolent army with a head made tumultuously. This insight reflects Machiavelli's emphasis on leadership qualities, asserting that a skilled and strategic captain can compensate for the weaknesses of a less disciplined army. It reinforces the importance of effective leadership in military endeavors and the value of disciplined instruction.

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  • 6. 

    What does Machiavelli say about decisionmaking in Rome?

    • Rome's actions were solely based on private counsel

    • Rome's actions were solely based on public counsel

    • Rome's actions had no specific counsel

    • Rome's actions proceeded by either public counsel or private counsel

    Correct Answer
    A. Rome's actions proceeded by either public counsel or private counsel
    Explanation
    Machiavelli notes that Rome's actions, as recounted by Livy, proceeded either by "public counsel" or by "private counsel," and they concerned either things inside the city or things outside the city, yielding four possible combinations. This distinction sets the stage for Machiavelli's analysis of different types of political decision-making and the various considerations that influence a state's actions. It reflects his nuanced understanding of the complexity of governance in both internal and external affairs.

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  • 7. 

    What does Machiavelli say about those who successfully establish absolutist regimes?

    • They attack the nobles, appeal to the people, then oppress the people.

    • They embrace democratic principles and empower the people.

    • They form alliances with other powerful nations.

    • They prioritize economic development and prosperity.

    Correct Answer
    A. They attack the nobles, appeal to the people, then oppress the people.
    Explanation
    Machiavelli states that those who are successful in establishing absolutist regimes attack the nobles by appealing to the people, then oppress the people once their enemies are eliminated. This observation encapsulates Machiavelli's realpolitik perspective, highlighting the manipulative strategies employed by leaders to consolidate power. It reveals the dual nature of political maneuvering, where populist appeals serve as a means to an end, ultimately leading to the suppression of opposition for the sake of regime stability.

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  • 8. 

    To whom does Machiavelli dedicate the Discourses on Livy?

    • Zanobi Buondelmonti

    • Cosimo Rucellai and Zanobi Buondelmonti

    • Leonardo da Vinci

    • Livy

    Correct Answer
    A. Cosimo Rucellai and Zanobi Buondelmonti
    Explanation
    Machiavelli dedicates the Discourses to two friends, Zanobi Buondelmonti and Cosimo Rucellai, both of whom appear in Machiavelli's Art of War. The dedication reflects Machiavelli's acknowledgment of the importance of friendship and intellectual exchange in the Renaissance context. By honoring his friends, Machiavelli establishes a personal connection, expressing gratitude for their influence on his thoughts and work.

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  • 9. 

    How many books and chapters are there in "Discourses on Livy"?

    • Two books with 100 numbered chapters

    • Four books with 200 numbered chapters

    • Three books with 142 numbered chapters

    • Five books with 150 numbered chapters

    Correct Answer
    A. Three books with 142 numbered chapters
    Explanation
    "Discourses on Livy" comprises three books with 142 numbered chapters. This organizational structure allows Machiavelli to systematically delve into the complexities of Livy's history and present his thoughts on republican government. Each chapter serves as a building block, contributing to the overall narrative and creating a comprehensive exploration of political philosophy, virtue, and governance. The numerical symmetry with Livy's history adds a layer of thematic connection and significance to Machiavelli's work.

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  • 10. 

    What does Machiavelli consider Rome's type of government in Book I?

    • A pure monarchy

    • An oligarchy

    • A republic combining monarchy, aristocracy, democracy

    • A pure democracy

    Correct Answer
    A. A republic combining monarchy, aristocracy, democracy
    Explanation
    In Book I, Machiavelli considers Rome's type of government to be a republic that combines elements of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy. This distinctive blend allows Machiavelli to explore the strengths and weaknesses of different political systems, highlighting the complexities of governance. By characterizing Rome as a unique republic, Machiavelli sets the stage for his analysis of how these diverse elements interacted to shape the political landscape of ancient Rome and the potential implications for contemporary states.

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  • 11. 

    How does Machiavelli view the role of a dictatorial authority in a republic?

    • Detrimental to the stability of the republic

    • Beneficial for quick decision-making in crises

    • Irrelevant and unnecessary for governance

    • Essential for maintaining order and discipline

    Correct Answer
    A. Beneficial for quick decision-making in crises
    Explanation
    Machiavelli conveys that having a dictatorial authority is beneficial for a republic because it allows for quick decisions in times of crisis, ensuring efficient governance that a republic may struggle to achieve collectively. This perspective reflects Machiavelli's pragmatic approach to governance, where he acknowledges the utility of concentrated authority in certain situations. It highlights his consideration of the practical challenges faced by republics and the need for decisive leadership during emergencies.

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  • 12. 

    According to Machiavelli, what is necessary to sustain a republic in a newly freed city?

    • Establish a strong economic presence

    • Making violent examples out of your enemies

    • Encourage young leadership

    • Promote artistic and cultural development

    Correct Answer
    A. Making violent examples out of your enemies
    Explanation
    Machiavelli argues that to sustain a republic in a newly freed city, it is necessary to "Kill the sons of Brutus," meaning that making violent examples out of the enemies of the free regime is crucial for the republic's stability. This provocative assertion underscores Machiavelli's realpolitik approach, where the use of force and the elimination of potential threats are seen as necessary measures to secure the longevity of a newly established republic.

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  • 13. 

    What does Machiavelli state about corruption in Book 2?

    • Corruption is essential for political stability

    • Corruption is unavoidable in any government

    • Corruption is hard to sustain in a republic

    • Corruption only occurs in absolute regimes

    Correct Answer
    A. Corruption is hard to sustain in a republic
    Explanation
    Machiavelli speaks on corruption in Book 2, stating that corruption is hard to sustain in a republic, especially one that has recently been freed from monarchy. This observation reveals Machiavelli's nuanced understanding of corruption dynamics in different political contexts. His perspective highlights the challenges of maintaining ethical governance and the potential vulnerabilities that arise when transitioning from one form of government to another. It adds depth to his exploration of political virtue and the pitfalls of corruption within republics.

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  • 14. 

    According to Machiavelli, which rulers are most praiseworthy?

    • Those who create a republic or kingdom

    • Those who lead due to religion

    • Those who conquer territories

    • Those who accumulate wealth

    Correct Answer
    A. Those who lead due to religion
    Explanation
    Machiavelli ranks rulers most praiseworthy based first on those who lead due to religion and then those who create a republic or kingdom. This reveals Machiavelli's emphasis on the role of ethical leadership and the establishment of stable political structures. Leaders who prioritize religious virtues or contribute to the formation of enduring political entities are deemed more commendable in Machiavelli's perspective, aligning with his broader themes on effective governance.

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  • 15. 

    What is the subject of Livy's first ten books of "Ab urbe condita" that Machiavelli's Discourses are based on?

    • Rise of the Greek Empire

    • Expansion of Rome through the Third Samnite War

    • The founding of Rome 

    • Reign of Augustus

    Correct Answer
    A. Expansion of Rome through the Third Samnite War
    Explanation
    The subject of the first ten books of Livy's "Ab urbe condita" is the expansion of Rome through the end of the Third Samnite War in 293 BC. Machiavelli chooses this historical context to explore themes of power, governance, and virtue, drawing parallels between ancient Rome and his contemporary political landscape. By delving into Livy's narrative, Machiavelli extracts valuable lessons that resonate with his views on republicanism and leadership.

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Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Nov 29, 2023 +

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  • Current Version
  • Nov 29, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Nov 28, 2023
    Quiz Created by
    Kriti Bisht
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