Author
Niccolò Machiavelli
1469-1527
Niccolò Machiavelli (1469-1527) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Niccolò Machiavelli
The Prince
"The Prince" by Niccolò Machiavelli is a political treatise written in 1513 and published in 1532. Presented as an instruction guide for new rulers, this controversial work suggests that immoral acts may be necessary to achieve political power and glory. Written in vernacular Italian rather than Latin, it breaks from traditional advice literature by focusing on practical effectiveness over abstract ideals. Its worldview challenged dominant Catholic doctrines of the time, making "Machiavellian" synonymous with political cunning and contributing to modern negative connotations of politics itself.
Discourses on the First Decade of Titus Livius
"Discourses on the First Decade of Titus Livius" by Niccolò Machiavelli is a work of political history and philosophy written around 1517. Using the first ten books of Livy's ancient Roman history as a foundation, Machiavelli examines how past civilizations can teach lessons for contemporary politics. He explores different forms of government, the cycles of political greatness, and Rome's evolution into a republic. Through 142 chapters, Machiavelli argues that studying history reveals timeless principles about power, leadership, and the common good.
History of Florence and of the Affairs of Italy From the Earliest Times to the Death of Lorenzo the Magnificent
"History of Florence and of the Affairs of Italy" by Niccolò Machiavelli is a historical account first published posthumously in 1532. Commissioned by the Medici family, this work chronicles Florence's turbulent past through Machiavelli's distinctive political lens. He examines the city's destructive factionalism and moral decay, contrasting it with ancient Rome's productive conflicts. The narrative features vivid portraits of the Medici family, dramatic speeches including one from the 1378 Ciompi Revolt, and detailed accounts of conspiracies and power struggles that shaped Renaissance Florence.
Machiavelli, Volume I
"Machiavelli, Volume I" by Niccolò Machiavelli is a historical account written in the early 16th century. This work primarily discusses political theory and military strategy, articulating the mechanics of governance and the conditions necessary for maintaining power. A significant aspect of the volume is the examination of leadership qualities that can contribute to the success or failure of states, particularly in the context of Renaissance Italy's volatile political landscape. The opening of the work sets the stage for Machiavelli's reflections on his life as a writer after facing imprisonment and disfavor. He describes his daily routine filled with nature, reading, and familial obligations, followed by a yearning to engage with the great thinkers of the past. This introduction establishes his quest for knowledge as both a personal solace and a means to develop a treatise—"De Principalibus"—aimed at new leaders on the nature of rule and governance. As he turns to the realm of warfare, he emphasizes the crucial relationship between effective military strategy and political stability, laying the groundwork for his exploration of statecraft throughout the text.
Macchiavellis Buch vom Fürsten
"Macchiavellis Buch vom Fürsten" by Niccolò Machiavelli is a political treatise written in 1513. Presented as an instruction guide for new princes, this controversial work argues that immoral acts may be necessary to achieve political power. Breaking with traditional Catholic teachings, Machiavelli uses examples from history—including the murderous career of Cesare Borgia—to demonstrate that practical effectiveness matters more than abstract ideals. This short but revolutionary text gave birth to the term "Machiavellian" and transformed how we understand politics and power.
La mandragola - La Clizia - Belfagor
"La mandragola - La Clizia - Belfagor" by Niccolò Machiavelli is a collection of plays written in the early 16th century. The works include comedic pieces that explore themes of love, deception, and societal norms, primarily set in Florence. The opening play, "Mandragola," centers around Callimaco, a young man returning from Paris, who is enamored with Lucrezia, the wife of the simple and naive Messer Nicia. The characters navigate a web of plots and schemes to achieve their desires, revealing both the absurdities and complexities of human relationships. At the start of "Mandragola," we are introduced to Callimaco, who expresses his troubled feelings over his unrequited love for Lucrezia, despite her being married to Nicia. Callimaco confides in his servant Siro about his deep infatuation and his belief that Nicia's foolishness and desire for children might provide him an opportunity to pursue Lucrezia. As Callimaco and Siro discuss potential schemes, they enlist the cunning assistance of Ligurio, who concocts a plan involving a miraculous potion to ensure Lucrezia becomes pregnant, thereby creating the perfect distraction for Callimaco to pursue his romantic interest. The opening sets the stage for a humorous exploration of deception and longing in a society filled with intrigue and moral ambiguity.
Ruhtinas
"Ruhtinas" by Niccolò Machiavelli is a political treatise written in 1513. This groundbreaking guide for new rulers argues that immoral acts may be necessary to achieve political power and glory. Written in Italian rather than Latin, it uses historical examples to illustrate practical political strategy over abstract ideals. The work directly challenged Catholic and scholastic teachings of its time, making it a controversial cornerstone of modern political philosophy and giving rise to the term "Machiavellian."