The Prince

the Prince Questions

“Men are either to be kindly treated or utterly crushed, since they can avenge lighter injuries, but not graver.” What does this quote mean?

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Last updated by Aslan
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Machiavelli is saying that men must be dominated and crushed. They should respect and fear a wise prince because they have nothing more to lose. A lightly damaged opponent is more dangerous than an opponent who has nothing to gain by opposition.

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