The Prince

A new, beautifully laid-out, easy-to-read edition of Niccolo Machiavelli's classic work of political thought, The Prince or Il Principe. A 16th-century political treatise written by the Italian diplomat and political theorist Niccolò Machiavelli, it was framed as an instruction guide for new political leaders or as a "mirror for princes." The general theme of The Prince is of accepting that the aims of princes – such as glory and survival – can justify the use of immoral means to achieve those ends. Some critics argue that this reading should not be taken at face value, however -- that Machiavelli was not so much "justifying" ends-justify-the-means morality, but portraying a current political reality rather than making any normative statements.
The Princeis considered by some scholars to be one of the first works of modern philosophy, and one of the first works of political philosophy in particular, and has been extremely influential on the development of political science and political theory as academic disciplines. The Prince remains the most remembered of Machiavelli's works and one of the most widely read and assigned works of political theory.
This edition is based on William K. Marriott's 1908 translation of Machiavelli's classic, originally published in 1532.
Niccolò Machiavelli (1469 - 1527) was a prominent Italian political philosopher and statesman, best known for his highly influential political treatise, The Prince. Machiavelli was born in Florence and educated at the University of Florence. He was an important figure in the political scene of Renaissance Italy and a key figure in the development o modern political thought. Machiavelli wrote extensively on the subject of political power and how to acquire and maintain it. He argued that rulers should be willing to use any means necessary to defend their power, including deception, cruelty and the use of force. His theories, which were initially controversial, are now seen as a major influence on modern political thought and have been widely studied by political scientists and philosophers. Machiavelli was also a diplomat and a theorist of warfare. He wrote several books on military strategy, offering practical advice about how to build an effective military force, as well as how to conduct successful campaigns. He also argued for an enlightened approach to militar leadership, emphasizing the importance of discipline and the need for clear objectives. Machiavelli's writings have been highly influential in the development of modern political thought and have been widely studied by political scientists and philosophers. His work has had a major impact on the way in which political power is understood and used. Machiavelli's legacy lives on in the modern world and his writings continue to shape political discourse and debate.
William K. Marriott (1847-1927) was an English businessman and merchant, most remembered today as a popular translator of Machiavelli's works into English.