Question

Which option best states the main idea of the passage from chapter 5 of The Prince?

a. Former republics are more difficult to rule than hereditary states, and they will rebel if they are not tightly controlled.
b. The strategies for controlling hereditary states and former republics are the same.
c. Hereditary states come with a history that must be deeply understood if a new prince is to control them easily.
d. Hereditary states never forget their former loyalties so they are hard to control.

Answer 1

The best summary for the main idea of the passage from chapter 5 of The Prince is that former republics require tight control to prevent rebellion, as they are more difficult to govern than hereditary states.

Step-by-step explanation:

The option that best states the main idea of the passage from chapter 5 of The Prince is: Former republics are more difficult to rule than hereditary states, and they will rebel if they are not tightly controlled. This statement encapsulates Machiavelli's view that a new prince must understand the unique challenges that come with ruling a republic, specifically that such states have memories of their past autonomy and are prone to revolt if their affairs are not managed with a firm, controlling hand.