Machiavelli, Volume I

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

15772

Title

Machiavelli, Volume I

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This volume presents Niccolò Machiavelli's seminal political treatises, *The Art of War* and *The Prince*, alongside his historical writings. The text explores the nature of principality, the dangers of mercenary armies versus national militias, and the necessity of a strong, unified Italian state. Written with a tone of urgent civic duty and sharp political realism, the work appeals to leaders seeking to understand the complex interplay of fortune, virtue, and power in maintaining state stability.

Summary up to 500 words

Niccolò Machiavelli's *Machiavelli, Volume I* presents a rigorous examination of statecraft, military strategy, and the nature of political power. In *The Art of War*, Machiavelli argues that a prudent prince must rely on citizen-soldiers rather than mercenaries, who are inherently disloyal and expensive. He illustrates this with historical analysis, noting how Rome maintained strength by rotating legions every fifteen years to keep soldiers in their prime, whereas later emperors who maintained standing armies for personal power invited ruin. The text emphasizes that war is the art of the prince and that peace should be utilized to train citizens for future defense. In *The Prince*, Machiavelli distinguishes between civil principalities gained by the people's favor and those supported by the great nobility. He asserts that a prince relying on the people is safer, as the multitude is harder to corrupt than a few ambitious nobles. He advises that a prince must be feared but not hated and must possess the flexibility to adapt to changing times, a quality he attributes to Pope Julius II. The volume concludes with an exhortation to liberate Italy from foreign domination, urging a new prince to unite the fractured peninsula. Machiavelli blends historical analysis with practical advice, acknowledging the role of fortune while insisting on the necessity of human virtue and wisdom. His correspondence with Francesco Vettori reveals a man who, after political exile, found solace in literature and friendship, yet never lost his passion for public service. The work stands as a timeless guide to leadership, power dynamics, and the preservation of liberty.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Philosophy
• History
• Politics