“The Prince” Machiavelli
World History Honors
Comprehension Questions for The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
1. Describe the nature of love and fear in the relationship between a prince
and his people. Why does Machiavelli say that it is best for a prince "to be
both loved and feared?" Is it possible for a prince to be both? Explain.
2. What is Machiavelli’s view of human nature? How does this help explain
what he says about the way in which a prince should rule?
3. Compile a list of five (5) important characteristics of a Machiavellian ruler.
Explain the importance of each of these traits as they relate to being an
effective ruler.
4. a. As you perceive it, what advantages might a citizen encounter living
under a Machiavellian ruler? Describe what a best-case-scenario
Machiavellian state might be like. b. As you perceive it, what
disadvantages might a citizen encounter living under a Machiavellian
ruler? Describe what a worst-case-scenario Machiavellian state might be
like.