Read the excerpt from chapter 8 of The Prince.Hence it is to be remarked that, in seizing a state, the usurper ought to examine closely into all those injuries which it is necessary for him to inflict, and to do them all at one stroke so as not to have to repeat them daily; and thus by not unsettling men he will be able to reassure them, and win them to himself by benefits. He who does otherwise, either from timidity or evil advice, is always compelled to keep the knife in his hand; neither can he rely on his subjects, nor can they attach themselves to him, owing to their continued and repeated wrongs. For injuries ought to be done all at one time, so that, being tasted less, they offend less; benefits ought to be given little by little, so that the flavour of them may last longer.
Answer
A
There are more words with negative ones than positive ones, creating a frightening tone.
B
There are more words with negative ones than positive ones, creating a threatening tone.
C
The words with positive connotations soften the ones with negative connotations to create a serious, matter-of-fact tone.
D
The words with positive connotations are used to create an encouraging tone.
Explanation
The excerpt includes negative words and images such as “injuries,” “knife,” and “wrongs,” but balances them with positive words such as “reassure,” “benefits,” and “flavour.” This contrast makes the advice sound serious and practical rather than simply frightening or encouraging. Choice C correctly describes how the positive connotations soften the negative ones to create a matter-of-fact tone.
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