Question

Read the passage from chapter 17 of The Prince.

And that prince who, relying entirely on their promises, has neglected other precautions, is ruined; because friendships that are obtained by payments, and not by greatness or nobility of mind, may indeed be earned, but they are not secured, and in time of need cannot be relied upon; and men have less scruple in offending one who is beloved than one who is feared, for love is preserved by the link of obligation which, owing to the baseness of men, is broken at every opportunity for their advantage; but fear preserves you by a dread of punishment which never fails.

In the context of the passage, what is the connotation of beloved and love?

They suggest friendship, suggesting that even base men need close bonds.
They suggest weakness, since Machiavelli argues the bonds of love are easily broken.
They suggest faithfulness, since Machiavelli’s love can be relied on in times of need.
They suggest faithfulness, suggesting obligations that are secured through love.

Answer 1

They suggest weakness — Machiavelli argues that love (being based on obligation) is easily broken by men's baseness, so beloved/love connote unreliable, fragile bonds rather than faithful strength.