The Prince, Chapter 20 summary
Chapter 20 of 28 · 6 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 20, the speaker weighs arming subjects, encouraging divisions, winning over enemies, and building fortresses, stressing that useful policies depend on circumstances. He rejects factional division as dangerous in war and concludes that avoiding the people’s hatred offers stronger protection than relying on fortified defenses.
What happens
- The speaker recommends arming subjects in a new principality but disarming people in a newly acquired province.
- He argues that factions weaken cities during invasion, using the Venetians’ experience after Vaila as evidence.
- He explains how overcoming enemies can increase a prince’s reputation and how former opponents can become loyal servants.
- He warns that supporters motivated only by dissatisfaction with their former government are difficult to satisfy.
- Examples of rulers building or destroying fortresses show that their usefulness depends on the threats a prince faces.
- The Countess of Forli’s contrasting experiences support the conclusion that fortresses cannot replace freedom from popular hatred.
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In this chapter
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When does the speaker advise a prince to build fortresses?
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