About this book
Niccolò Machiavelli was a Florentine diplomat and official who lost his position when the Medici family returned to power. In the years that followed he wrote The Prince, a short treatise on how rulers acquire and hold on to states. It was published in 1532, after his death.
The book is famous for its unsentimental realism. Machiavelli draws on examples from ancient history and from the turbulent politics of the Italian states, and he argues that a ruler must judge actions by their effects rather than by conventional moral standards. Its reputation for ruthlessness has made his name a byword, though scholars still debate his true intentions.
Many translations and editions of this work exist; we suggest choosing a modern translation with notes, maps and an introduction, which makes a real difference for first-time readers. It is a key text for understanding Renaissance politics and the history of political thought. For the cultural world around it, see Leonardo da Vinci.
Who it’s for
Short and accessible for most readers; the ideas are provocative, and notes on the Italian background make it much clearer.
Editions vary by publisher and format. Check the retailer’s listing for the edition, translation and format before you buy.