Discourses on Livy · Chapter
XLIII explained
This chapter argues that soldiers fighting in their own cause are far more resolute and effective than those who fight merely for pay or to satisfy another's ambition.
What happens
This chapter argues that soldiers fighting in their own cause are far more resolute and effective than those who fight merely for pay or to satisfy another's ambition. Using the example of the Romans, who were victorious under the consuls but defeated under the decemvirs, Machiavelli explains that mercenary troops lack the devotion necessary for true valor. He concludes that a state must arm its own citizens to achieve great things in war.
Themes in this chapter
Republican Liberty and Popular Government
The chapter contrasts the effectiveness of free citizens fighting for their own cause with the poor performance of soldiers under a tyrannical decemvirate, highlighting the link between liberty and military valor.
Leadership and Moral Character
The decemvirs' failure to inspire loyalty in their soldiers demonstrates how poor leadership undermines an army's effectiveness.
Characters to notice
- Appius Claudius
Implied as a leader of the decemvirate, under whose command Roman soldiers fought without the same goodwill and were defeated.
Key passages
“That men fighting in their own cause make good and resolute soldiers.”
Soldiers who are personally invested in the outcome of a war fight with greater courage and determination.
This is the central thesis of the chapter, contrasting citizen-soldiers with mercenaries.
“Under the decemvirs the ancient valour of the Roman soldiers had in no degree abated; yet, because they were no longer animated by the same good will, they did not exert themselves as they were wont.”
The Roman soldiers under the decemvirs still possessed their traditional bravery, but lacking the same motivation and loyalty, they did not fight as effectively as before.
Machiavelli emphasizes that morale and goodwill are as important as raw courage in battle.