Question

What text evidence supports Machiavelli’s primary purpose to persuade readers that a conquering prince must destroy a former republic if he hopes to hold it? Select three options.

the list of cities Rome and Sparta conquered
the portrayal of Greece as being held by Sparta
the explanation of how Rome held Capua, Carthage, and Numantia
the description of liberty as a rallying cry for rebellion in former republics
the example of the Florentines losing control over Pisa

Answer 1

- the explanation of how Rome held Capua, Carthage, and Numantia
- the description of liberty as a rallying cry for rebellion in former republics
- the example of the Florentines losing control over Pisa

Briefly: these items show Machiavelli’s argument about the risks posed by restored liberty in conquered republics and give concrete examples of what works (Roman harsh measures) and what fails (Florence’s loss of Pisa).