Machiavelli Chapter 10-15

Chapter Ten - Key point

• A state should be strong enough to defend itself without relying solely on allies

Two types of states (ch.10)

• Self-sufficient states: have their own arms and enough resources to stand on alone. These are harder to attack and easier to maintain

• Dependent - States: must rely on others for defense; these are weaker and more vulnerable

Chapter Eleven - Main Point

• Ecclesiastical states - ruled by the church and are unique as they are acquired by fortune or virtue, but sustained by ancient religious institutions

• once established, they are amongst the most stable principalities

Princes in these states (chapter 11)

Don’t need to defend themselves militarily because the church’s religious authority protects them