Subjects:
In Chapter One, Machiavelli lets it be known that all states that have ever held power over others have either been republics of monarchies. These monarchies are either hereditary, or are new monarchies. These states that are taken are either accustomed to rule of a monarch, or are former free states that are taken by force of arms, or obtained through good fortune. But we still need an explanation of what these monarchies really are.
In the second chapter Machiavelli goes into detail on hereditary monarchies. A hereditary monarchy is much easier to maintain than a new monarchy. With a hereditary monarchy a lot of rules have already been set. You simply step in and maintain them. You don’t want to go past boundaries set by family in the past, and because your family has been in
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When a prince acquires a territory through his own arms and ability there are problems that can occur. It will also lead to how your people see you. For as long as he rules he will not gain the trust of the people. Too much mercy allows rules to be broken, and blood to be shed. It may seem easy to govern because they are already up and running but once you try to establish yourself as leader, your problems begin. This is not the case and it ends up catching up with them.
You must avoid being hated and despised and instead attempt to obtain a great reputation. This brings attention, and no attention is ever bad. Machiavelli does say that it is necessary to posses the friendship of the people. Although you want to be considered merciful, you want your subjects to realize that cruelty will not be passed aside. Many people see, but not many can feel. If you are loved by the masses then the conspirators have no social backup for their cause. A fortress is only a good thing to have if you are protecting yourself from the masses. This is what lead to the eventual downfall of Darius. If your outward appearance beams power no one will question.
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