Discourses on Livy · Chapter
That the consecutive reigns of two valiant princes produce great results: and that well-ordered commonwealths are assured of a succession of valiant rulers by whom their power and growth are rapidly extended. explained
This chapter argues that a well-ordered commonwealth, by electing its rulers through free suffrage, can ensure a continuous succession of valiant leaders, enabling rapid growth and power.
What happens
This chapter argues that a well-ordered commonwealth, by electing its rulers through free suffrage, can ensure a continuous succession of valiant leaders, enabling rapid growth and power. It contrasts this with the risks of hereditary monarchy, citing the example of Philip of Macedon and his son Alexander to show how even two successive valiant princes can conquer the world, while a republic can produce an endless number of such rulers.
Themes in this chapter
Leadership and Moral Character
The chapter emphasizes the importance of valiant and capable rulers, whether in a monarchy or a republic, for achieving greatness and expansion.
Republican Liberty and Popular Government
Contrasts the hereditary succession of kings with the republican method of electing consuls by free suffrage, which allows for a continuous succession of excellent leaders.
Characters to notice
- Philip of Macedon
Cited as an example of a valiant prince whose reign, followed by his son Alexander, sufficed to conquer the world.
- Alexander the Great
Cited as the son of Philip of Macedon, continuing the succession of valiant princes that led to world conquest.
Key passages
“And since we find that two successive reigns of valiant princes, as of Philip of Macedon and his son Alexander, suffice to conquer the world, this ought to be still easier for a commonwealth, which has it in its power to choose, not two excellent rulers only, but an endless number in succession.”
If two consecutive strong kings like Philip and Alexander can conquer the world, a republic that can elect an endless series of excellent leaders should find it even easier to achieve greatness.
This paraphrase captures the core argument that a republic's ability to continuously choose capable leaders gives it an advantage over hereditary monarchy.