The Quotable Machiavelli

A collection of insightful and revealing quotations on a wide range of subjects from the father of modern politics Niccol Machiavelli (14691527) is the father of modern political thought, but he is also one of the greatest writers of the Renaissance and his wisdom and style extend far beyond politics to encompass a compelling philosophy of life as well. In The Quotable Machiavelli, Maurizio Viroli, one of the world's leading Machiavelli scholars, offers a rich collection of the Florentines most memorable words on a wide range of subjects, including politics, the human condition, religion, love and happiness, antiquity and history, patriotism, and virtue. Drawing on Machiavellis entire body of writings, and including little-known quotations as well as famous passages, the book shows the full scope of his thought and belies the clich that he was a "Machiavellian" cynic. In addition to Machiavellis own words on dozens of subjects of perennial interest, the book includes some almost unknown texts in which his contemporaries describe him. Complete with a biographical introduction, the book serves as a handy reference and a smart and lively introduction to a masterly thinker and writer. Includes a rich collection of Machiavellis most memorable words on a wide range of subjects, from politics to the human conditionalmost 700 quotations in all Edited and introduced by one of the worlds leading Machiavelli scholars Serves as a smart and lively introduction to Machiavellis life and works Draws on the complete body of Machiavellis writings Features a brief biography of Machiavelli, a chronology of his life, suggestions for further reading, and an index