Discourses on Livy · Chapter
LIV explained
This chapter discusses how a grave and authoritative figure can restrain an excited multitude, using the example of Messer Francesco Soderini calming an armed crowd in Florence, and referencing the Roman people's stubborn desire to transpla
What happens
This chapter discusses how a grave and authoritative figure can restrain an excited multitude, using the example of Messer Francesco Soderini calming an armed crowd in Florence, and referencing the Roman people's stubborn desire to transplant themselves to Veii.
Themes in this chapter
Leadership and Moral Character
The chapter emphasizes how a grave and authoritative figure can calm an excited multitude through personal bearing and dignity.
Necessity and Reason of State
The senate used revered citizens to repress popular fury, showing the necessity of authority to maintain order.
Characters to notice
- Piero Soderini
Mentioned as Pagolo Antonio Soderini, a citizen of great reputation, whose house was threatened by the Frateschi faction.
- Antonio Giacomini
Not directly mentioned; however, the Soderini family is referenced, and Messer Francesco Soderini is the key figure.
Key passages
“nothing tends so much to restrain an excited multitude as the reverence felt for some grave person, clothed with authority, who stands forward to oppose them.”
The most effective way to calm a riotous crowd is the presence of a respected authority figure who confronts them.
Central thesis of the chapter.
“putting on his best apparel and over it his episcopal robes, went forth to meet the armed multitude, and by his words and mien brought them to a stay”
Messer Francesco Soderini dressed in his finest and episcopal robes, then faced the armed crowd, calming them with his speech and demeanor.
Example from Florence illustrating the principle.