The Prince
A practical treatise on acquiring and maintaining political power, composed as advice for princes. Machiavelli examines types of principalities, methods of conquest and retention, military affairs, and princely virtues. He concludes with exhortation to liberate Italy from foreign dominion and includes accounts of historical figures exemplifying his theories.
Divisions
- Introduction0 / 4
Machiavelli's life (1469–1527) across three periods: youth under Medici greatness, official career during Florence's republic, and literary activity after dismissal.
- The Prince0 / 18
Twenty-six chapters on types of principalities, military science, conduct of princes, and fortune in human affairs.
- Description of the Duke Valentino's Methods0 / 1
Account of Cesare Borgia's elimination of rivals Vitellozzo Vitelli, Oliverotto da Fermo, and the Orsini at Sinigalia in 1502.
- The Life of Castruccio Castracani of Lucca0 / 25
Biography of a skilled military commander and prince (1284–1328) who rose from obscurity to dominate Tuscany through valour and cunning.