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Classic Books Library presents this brand new edition of Machiavelli's political treatise entitled, "The Prince" (1532). The work notably advocates the power of human action and free will - unusual ethical concepts in the political landscape of Florence that customarily favoured religion and ancient philosophies to explain society's issues. Published after his death, it is commonly believed that Machiavelli wrote "The Prince" as a guide for rulers, namely Lorenzo Medici, who was not in power at the time. Niccolò Machiavelli (1469-1527) was a Florentine politician, philosopher and historian. An influential figure during the Italian Renaissance, Machiavelli was instrumental in the development of Western political science.
About the author
Niccolò Machiavelli (3 May 1469 - 21 June 1527) was an Italian Renaissance diplomat, philosopher, and writer, best known for The Prince, written in 1513. He has often been called the father of modern political philosophy or political science. For many years he served as a senior official in the Florentine Republic with responsibilities in diplomatic and military affairs. He wrote comedies, carnival songs, and poetry, and worked as secretary to the Second Chancery of the Republic of Florence from 1498 to 1512, when the Medici were out of power.Machiavelli considered political battles, not through a lens of morality, but as though they are a board game with established rules. His experience showed him that politics has always been played with deception, treachery and crime. He also notably said that a ruler who is establishing a kingdom or a republic, and is criticized for his deeds, including violence, should be excused when the intention and the result is beneficial.
