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The Prince, Chapter 17 summary

Chapter 17 of 28 · 4 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 17, the speaker argues that measured cruelty can protect public order and that fear offers a prince greater security than love when both cannot coexist. Examples involving Cesare Borgia, Hannibal, and Scipio support this advice, while the requirement to avoid hatred limits how a prince should punish subjects and handle their property.

What happens

  1. The speaker contrasts Cesare Borgia’s restoration of order with Florence’s failure to prevent Pistoia’s destruction through excessive mercy.
  2. A new prince needs firmness but should act calmly, avoiding both careless confidence and excessive suspicion.
  3. Fear provides greater security than love because people break obligations for advantage but remain afraid of punishment.
  4. A prince should avoid hatred by respecting property and women and giving clear justification for executions.
  5. Hannibal’s cruelty holds his army together, while Scipio’s excessive leniency permits rebellion and leaves a legate’s abuses unpunished.
  6. The speaker concludes that a prince should depend on what he controls rather than on other people’s affection.

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In this chapter

Cesare Borgia

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Why does the speaker say Scipio’s army rebels in Spain?

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