Niccolò Machiavelli, The Prince Quotes
The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him.
The promise given was a necessity of the past: the word broken is a necessity of the present.
God is not willing to do everything, and thus take away our free will and that share of glory which belongs to us.
In conclusion, the arms of others either fall from your back, or they weigh you down, or they bind you fast.
Wisdom consists of knowing how to distinguish the nature of trouble, and in choosing the lesser evil.
It is necessary for a prince wishing to hold his own to know how to do wrong, and to make use of it or not according to necessity.
There are many who think a wise prince ought, when he has the chance, to foment astutely some enmity, so that by suppressing it he will augment his greatness.
Armour belonging to someone else either chops off you or weighs you down or is too tight
A prince need take little account of conspiracies if the people are disposed in his favor.
... When Princes devote themselves rather to pleasure than to arms, they lose their dominions.
Florence which included diplomatic missions to various European courts.
at Florence which included diplomatic missions to various European courts. Imprisoned
... On the whole, the best fortress you can have, is in not being hated by your subjects. If they hate you no fortress will save you...