I believe the answer is C
Here is my answer, I typed it in a document because I didn't want to have a long answer here, picture below. I hope I helped! :-)
The correct answer is A. They suggest that a ruler who is feared can retain power, while a ruler who is hated is less likely to do so.
Explanation:
In the passage presented, Machiavelli explains the way the prince needs to inspire fear rather than hate "Nevertheless a prince ought to inspire fear in such a way that, if he does not win love, he avoids hatred". According to him, this is necessary because the prince can govern if there is fear but not hate, about this, Machiavelli states the prince should never take away property because this would lead to hate form people; however, if necessary he can take life, although he recommends doing this due to proper reasons and without creating a reputation of cruelty as otherwise hate will emerge and this is not advisable.
According to this, Machiavelli proposes it is good people fear rather than hate a ruler and therefore the words feared and hatred in the passage "suggest that a ruler who is feared can retain power, while a ruler who is hated is less likely to do so".
B. is the BEST because it gives the flexibility of theme ideas for courage.
C. is very specific on climbing mountains as the only way to learn about courage.
A and D are criticising courage.