Machiavelli says it is better to be feared. He states in the text The Prince, Chapter IV , “Therefore a prince, so long as he keeps his subjects united and loyal, ought not to mind the reproach of cruelty; this means that as long as Machiavelli does this he is allowed to be cruel. If you are one who shows mercy that will allow “disorders to arise, from which allow murders or robberies.” When you show that you have a soft spot that is when you will began to get walked all over and people will take advantage. On the other hand, when you are feared people will take you serious and show you more respect because they know that you are cruel and you don’t show any mercy. Also “It is impossible for the new prince to avoid the imputation of cruelty, owing to new states being full of dangers” it states in The Prince, Chapter IV. Basically he has to be cruel in order to protect himself and his title as the Prince.
If Macbeth was asked the question, is it better to be feared or loved, I think Macbeth
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In Act 1, Scene 4 of Macbeth he says “Just giving the service and loyalty that I owe you is its own reward. It is Your Highness’s role to receive what we owe you; our duties are to your throne and state children and servants; which do but what they should, by doing everything Safe toward your love and honour.” This shows Macbeth’s feelings and support for Duncan. Macbeth expressing his feelings shows that he is not cruel and have almost love for Duncan. Also in Act 1, Scene 7, he says, “he has two reasons to trust me while he’s here: First, I am his relative and his subject- and as both, I have strong reasons not to do the deed.” Macbeth had strong loyalty and a good heart and that’s how he portrayed himself. With the evidence provided, I believe that Macbeth would prefer being loved over being feared. He lead with his heart and most of all, listened to his wife, who he absolutely loved more than