Niccolò Machiavelli 
Discourses on Livy 

In Niccolò Machiavelli’s ‘Discourses on Livy’, the author discusses the nature of politics and power through a series of commentaries on the work of the ancient Roman historian, Livy. Machiavelli’s writing style is characterized by its directness and pragmatism, reflecting his belief in the importance of practicality and efficacy in governance. The book is situated within the context of the Italian Renaissance, a time of political turmoil and machinations, and Machiavelli draws on historical examples to illustrate his theories on leadership and statecraft. ‘Discourses on Livy’ is considered a seminal work of political philosophy, offering insights into the nature of power and the strategies necessary for success in the political arena. Machiavelli’s background as a diplomat and statesman in Renaissance Florence informed his perspective on politics, and his firsthand experiences likely influenced the content of the book. I highly recommend ‘Discourses on Livy’ to readers interested in political theory, history, and the complexities of governing a state.

About the author

Niccolò Machiavelli (1469-1527) was an eminent Italian Renaissance political philosopher and historian, most recognized for his work in political theory. Born in Florence, Machiavelli lived during a tumultuous period in Italian politics, an experience which deeply informed his writings. His contributions to political science are immortalized in his seminal work ‘The Prince’, which outlines the controversial doctrine of political realism and the oft-misunderstood notion of ‘Machiavellian’ tactics. Machiavelli’s ‘Discourses on Livy’ is another of his key texts, in which he analyzes the structure and benefit of the Roman Republic to draw lessons for civic governance and the maintenance of liberty within a republic. Whereas ‘The Prince’ tends to overshadow Machiavelli’s other writings, the ‘Discourses’ provides a more comprehensive view of his republican beliefs, arguing for a mixed constitution and the active, virtuous participation of citizens as vital for a stable State. Machiavelli’s literary style is characterized by a clear and direct prose, using historical examples to substantiate his arguments. His pragmatic approach to political affairs was revolutionary for his time and continues to exert influence on political philosophy and ethics. His works remain a pivotal reference for understanding power dynamics, statecraft, and leadership.