Machiavelli Synopsis: Fear Is Better Than Love

Machiavelli Synopsis: “Fear is better than love”

Niccolo Machiavelli, born May 3, 1469 was the third son to a powerful lawyer and a noblewoman in Florence Italy. He was raised and taught grammar, rhetoric, and Latin while under the rule of the Medici family. Shortly after The medici’s removal from rule, young Niccolo gained the office of second chancery where he continued to shape his views on politicking and ruling. Through shrewd political movements he also became a secretary and an ambassador for Florence. He was also given command of Florence's militia where he developed a distrust of mercenaries. He commanded the militia until the pope backed Medici family placed florence under siege with spanish troops. Once the medici family regained ruling power they began a political cleanup, stripping all their enemies, perceived or otherwise of power. After loosing all power he was then accused of treason against the Medici family, as his name was found seventh on a list of potential saboteurs. After three weeks of extreme torture in which he was lifted up, then dropped by his bound arms, he

After spending time meandering around his family's ranch he had a brilliant idea. To prove his worth to the Medici family, he decided to write his all of his knowledge into De Principatibus or The Prince, what became his most famous work. He believed his political cunning would be of use to the Medici, and while they had tortured him, he still wanted to take part in Florences governing. In three months Machiavelli had completely written all 26 chapters, his coup de grace in writing, thinking, and politicking. As a last ditch shot to gain re-entrance to Florence, he sent it to the Medici family. He was unfortunately left in exile until his death. Nevertheless five years after his death, The Prince was published, showing his true brilliance and truly inventing modern