The Discourses

The first Brutus helps to found the Roman Republic by overthrowing the old ruler and administering an oath to the people. Whom did he overthrow, what did the oath promise, and why is such an oath vital to the founding of the Republic?

Machiavelli says there are six forms of government, three bad and three good. The bad are tyranny, oligarchy (“government of the few”) and anarchy. Briefly name and define the corresponding three good forms of government.

Why is religion important to the Roman Republic, and how does Rome use it to further its goals?

What is the chief risk in being an advisor to a king? Explain using an example from history cited by Machiavelli, and describe how he would reduce the danger.

When is it better to attack a threatening army, and when is it wiser to wait for the enemy to attack? Is Machiavelli correct in his views on this matter or not? Defend your viewpoint.

A hero performs great deeds that improve his city, and the city honors him. Later, he commits a crime, and the city must decide whether to punish him or excuse him on account of his earlier heroism. What does Machiavelli believe the city should do? What is his reasoning? Do you agree or not, and why?

Machiavelli believes that when an oppressed city becomes free, it is unlikely that its people will remain free. Describe why he believes this, and why you agree or disagree with him.

If one good leader is an advantage to an army, why not have two such leaders and double the advantage? In your answer, cite one example mentioned by Machiavelli.