Provocative, brutally honest, and timeless, Machiavelli’s The Prince is one of the most important yet misunderstood writings in history. In it, Machiavelli lays bare the reality behind politics as it has always been practiced, teaching leaders to avoid the errors and failings of others while also educating those outside of government about what goes on inside the halls of power. This edition offers a new and lively translation of The Prince, written in fluid modern English that is impressively accurate to the original source. It also includes extensive selections from the Discourses on Livy, together with a range of Machiavelli’s other works such as his poetry, his personal correspondence, and the Florentine Histories. The supplemental readings, engaging original introduction, and thorough annotations provided in this edition show the relevance of The Prince to a wide range of themes: human nature, the philosophy of history, and the existential question all rulers face—how to survive in a world that is largely outside of one’s control.

Niccolò di Bernardo dei Machiavelli (3 May 1469 – 21 June 1527) was an Italian philosopher, writer, and is considered one of the main founders of modern political science. He was a diplomat, political philosopher, musician, and playwright, but, foremost, he was a civil servant of the Florentine Republic. In June of 1498, after the ouster and execution of Girolamo Savonarola, the Great Council elected Machiavelli as Secretary to the second Chancery of the Republic of Florence.

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“Manuela Scarci’s excellent translation of Machiavelli’s most (in)famous work is accessible while at the same time respectful of his stylistic dignity. Welcome are this edition’s copious explanatory notes and helpful cross-references. Pleasing too are the accompanying extensive selections from the Discourses, along with ample portions of the Florentine Histories, The Art of War, and various literary works—all thoughtfully curated to substantiate the editor’s injunction against reliance solely on The Prince for an understanding of its author. And Jason Blahuta provides a provocative and learned introduction. He deftly places The Prince in the context of Machiavelli’s Renaissance, of his city, of his other works, and of his persistent themes. A great resource for a curious intellect, as well as for a university course in political thought.” — Timothy J. Lukes, Santa Clara University

“Scarci’s translation is clear and elegant, and it provokes the experienced reader with several subtle and intriguing choices. Blahuta includes relevant selections from eight of Machiavelli’s other works, as well as three letters, such that key themes of The Prince emerge more visibly within the context of Machiavelli’s overall project (and in sometimes surprising ways). This edition will be a useful resource for beginners and specialists alike.” — Kevin S. Honeycutt, Mercer University