The Prince

The Prince has a historical reputation for depravity, often leading to Machiavelli being seen as an evil counsellor. This perception often stems from the text being cited out of context. The book, written during a period of intense Italian political instability and foreign domination, was a product of Machiavelli's personal and national tragedy, composed in hope. It embodies his political thought, examining effective state power and foreign policy, influenced by his experiences and the urgent need for Italy's salvation.

All dominions are fundamentally either republics or principalities. Principalities can be hereditary or new; new ones may be entirely new or annexed to existing states. These are acquired through the prince's own arms or those of others, and by fortune or prowess. Hereditary principalities are generally easier to maintain as they are accustomed to their ruling family, requiring only the preservation of ancestral institutions and adaptation to events, leading to greater stability and affection.

The difficulty in maintaining new states depends heavily on a prince's prowess. Rulers who rely on their own capabilities, like Moses or Cyrus, acquire power with difficulty but hold it easily by introducing new institutions. Conversely, those who become princes purely by fortune or foreign arms, such as Cesare Borgia initially, find acquisition easy but maintenance challenging, often lacking deep roots and loyal troops, making them vulnerable to setbacks and the whims of fortune.

Princes can rise to power through criminal means, exemplified by Agathocles or Oliverotto, where treachery and ruthlessness secure the state. However, such methods may win power but not glory. Cruelty, if used, must be swift, decisive, and followed by benefits. Alternatively, power can be gained by the favor of fellow citizens, often from the people seeking protection from oppression. A prince supported by the people is generally more secure than one relying on nobles, provided he ensures their continuous dependence on his authority.

The twin foundations of any strong state are good laws and good arms, with the latter enabling the former. Relying on mercenary or auxiliary troops is inherently dangerous and ultimately ruinous, as their loyalty is weak and motives are self-serving. Italy’s historical struggles are attributed to this dependency. A wise prince must prioritize native troops, focusing solely on military organization and discipline, both physically and mentally, to ensure state security and successful expansion.

A prince, navigating the realities of governance, must recognize that trying to be entirely virtuous amidst many who are not can lead to ruin. It is essential to learn how not to be virtuous and apply this knowledge as necessity dictates. Some qualities perceived as virtues might jeopardize the state, while seemingly wicked ones can ensure security. The prince must prudently avoid vices that lead to losing power and not hesitate to use necessary vices to safeguard the state.

While a prince should desire a reputation for compassion, it is generally safer to be feared than loved, as human nature is fickle and self-interested. Fear, maintained by the dread of punishment, is a more reliable bond, but a prince must avoid hatred by respecting subjects' property and women. Furthermore, a prudent prince should not always keep his word if it disadvantages him. Like the fox and the lion, he must be cunning and forceful, appearing virtuous while being ready to deviate when necessary to preserve the state.

A prince must diligently avoid actions that cultivate hatred or contempt among his subjects. Hatred primarily stems from rapacity regarding property and women, while contempt arises from appearing fickle, cowardly, or irresolute. Instead, a prince should project an image of grandeur, courage, and strength. The most effective safeguard against internal conspiracies and external threats is to keep the people satisfied and avoid their hatred, as conspirators rely on popular discontent. Delegating unpopular decisions also helps preserve the prince's reputation.

A prince achieves honor and prestige through grand campaigns and clear demonstrations of ability. Domestically, this means rewarding citizens for notable deeds, ensuring security, and entertaining the populace, while always maintaining dignity. In diplomacy, being a decisive friend or enemy, rather than neutral, is advantageous. Regarding wise counsel, a discerning prince selects competent ministers and ensures their loyalty through generous treatment. He must seek advice judiciously, listen patiently, and then make his own firm decisions, avoiding flatterers and conflicting counsel to maintain respect and authority.

While fortune and divine will influence human affairs, Machiavelli asserts that approximately half of human actions are governed by free will. Fortune is compared to a raging river that can be prepared for during calm times with foresight. A prince dependent on fortune is ruined when it changes; success requires adapting policies to current circumstances. The text concludes with a passionate exhortation to liberate Italy from foreign oppressors, calling on the Medici to raise a powerful native army and establish sound new institutions, believing that ancient Roman valor still resides within the Italian people.