Answer :
In Machiavelli's passage from chapter 5 of The Prince, he argues that a conquering prince must destroy a former republic to hold it. Three pieces of text evidence that support this argument are:
1. The explanation of how Rome held Capua, Carthage, and Numantia: Machiavelli highlights that the Romans were able to maintain control over these cities by dismantling them. This action prevented rebellion and ensured their continued dominance.
2. The description of liberty as a rallying cry for rebellion in former republics: Machiavelli asserts that once a city accustomed to freedom is conquered and not destroyed, it becomes a breeding ground for rebellion. The concept of liberty serves as a powerful motivator for the city's inhabitants to resist foreign rule.
3. The portrayal of Greece as being held by Sparta: By comparing the Spartans' failure to retain control over Athens and Thebes despite establishing an oligarchy with the Romans' success in holding territories through destruction, Machiavelli emphasizes the necessity of decisive action in maintaining power.
These examples illustrate Machiavelli's argument that to effectively rule over a former republic, a conquering prince must take drastic measures, such as destruction, to ensure long-term stability and prevent uprisings based on ideals of liberty and independence.
1. The explanation of how Rome held Capua, Carthage, and Numantia: Machiavelli highlights that the Romans were able to maintain control over these cities by dismantling them. This action prevented rebellion and ensured their continued dominance.
2. The description of liberty as a rallying cry for rebellion in former republics: Machiavelli asserts that once a city accustomed to freedom is conquered and not destroyed, it becomes a breeding ground for rebellion. The concept of liberty serves as a powerful motivator for the city's inhabitants to resist foreign rule.
3. The portrayal of Greece as being held by Sparta: By comparing the Spartans' failure to retain control over Athens and Thebes despite establishing an oligarchy with the Romans' success in holding territories through destruction, Machiavelli emphasizes the necessity of decisive action in maintaining power.
These examples illustrate Machiavelli's argument that to effectively rule over a former republic, a conquering prince must take drastic measures, such as destruction, to ensure long-term stability and prevent uprisings based on ideals of liberty and independence.