Short Answer 
Machiavelli’s “The Prince” explores the difficulties of self-governance and the complex emotions in a conquered republic, highlighting the chaos that arises after a ruler’s demise. He emphasizes that the population often lacks the ability to govern themselves, leading to instability, and identifies key emotional dynamics such as vitality, hatred, and a desire for vengeance that influence societal decisions.
Step 1: Understand the Context
Written in the 16th Century, The Prince by Machiavelli serves as a key political treatise. It reflects on governance, leadership, and human emotions in the wake of power struggles. Machiavelli, an Italian politician and diplomat, observes the chaos that ensues when a ruler falls, revealing insights into how people lack the ability to govern themselves without strong leadership.
Step 2: Analyze Leadership Challenges
In the treatise, Machiavelli emphasizes that after the death of a prince, the populace often finds themselves in turmoil, unsure of how to choose a leader. He states that “they do not know how to rule themselves,” highlighting a critical issue that emerges in the absence of capable leadership. This lack of guidance can lead to instability and conflict within a society.
Step 3: Recognize Emotional Dynamics
Machiavelli also discusses the emotional state of people in a conquered republic. He notes that such communities are characterized by complex feelings, including:
- Vitality – People are often more engaged and passionate.
- Hatred – There may be lingering resentment towards oppressors.
- Desire for Vengeance – A strong motivation for revenge can affect social dynamics.
These emotions significantly impact the governance of a republic and the decisions made by its citizens.