The Prince By Niccolo Machiavelli

1. Machiavelli was influenced by the unstable nature of Italy. Florence was its own state and would have a stable and unstable relationship with neighbouring states. There was also the heavy influence of Religion in Italy. The Catholic Church played a big role in Italy. The backdrop of all of this the Renaissance period.

1.1. What were his influences?

2. What role did he play in Florence?

3. Who is Niccolo Machiavelli?

4. What was Italian Politics like during the 16th and 17th Centuries?

5. In Florence before he wrote "The Prince" he was a diplomat.

6. Who were the Medici's?

7. What is the relationship between Machiavelli and the Medici's?

8. Why did Machiavelli write "The Prince" and what did he hope to achieve?

9. It was written for Lorenzo De Medici (The Magnificent) who was the young ruler of the Medici. The book was serving as a job application as Machiavelli wanted to work for them. Lorenzo never read the book/pamphlet. The book was written in 1513. It was intended to be a guide for ambitious leaders. The book was published in 1532 and was banned by the Pope. Machiavelli died in 1527 and never saw how influential his text was. He wanted to regain his position in the court and recognition for his knowledge and skills. He had been put into prison and exiled out of Florence. His imprisonment was the result of the belief of him being anti Medici.