Critically assess Machiavelli’s main arguments in The Prince
Niccolò di Bernardo dei Machiavelli was born on 3rd May 1469 in Florence Italy.[1] Machiavelli was born into a tumultuous era, where political wars and foreign influences were a continued reality and threat. This could be argued to be the reason behind the views expressed by Machiavelli in his writings. In the essay Machiavelli’s first writing will be looked upon. Whilst doing so it would be appropriate to extract the main arguments and key points and asses their founding and importance, but to also critically examine them to perhaps question Machiavelli’s teachings.
You are viewing: Which Was One Of Machiavelli’s Main Arguments In The Prince
Read more : Which Is Better Cancun Or Cozumel
The Prince was written in 1513 and acted as a guide and to express the views of Machiavelli on how a prince should act in order to remain in power. In order to critically asses the main arguments in The Prince it would be first necessary to highlight the main points which are illustrated in the text.
A major argument that is presented by Machiavelli is the theory of Virtu and Fortune. Machiavelli argues that in order for a successful control of a Principality Virtu must be exerted. Virtu can be described as the ability to express strength, power and prowess. Machiavelli believed that these qualities must be demonstrated in order for successful governance of a state. This is said due to the fact that if a Prince illustrates these qualities he will therefore gain more respect and gratitude from the people. However if the Prince relies on Fortune alone the task of a successful governance will be hard to achieve.
Read more : Which Persons Of The Trinity Were Involved In The Creation
Machiavelli believes that by showing the characteristics of Virtu among the principality Fortune, described as luck and the opposite of Virtu will follow. He quotes “Fortune is a woman, lured by manly qualities. Friend of the spirited”. From the quote it could be said that Machiavelli is suggesting that using the metaphor of a woman if you express “manly qualities” such as those represented by Virtu then fortune will be lured and bring the prince luck and good fortune.
Examples of the success of displaying Virtu instead of Fortune can seen for Cyrus who through illustrating Virtu by expressing desires to become a leader found the Persians discontent with their government of the Medes. However as they found it difficult at first to acquire the kingdom due to the view in which they possessed required the changing of laws and culture. However although this left many fearful and mistrusted of Cyrus in the long run the qualities of Virtu provided Fortune to follow and therefore the position of prince may be secured. This to Machiavelli is described as an “armed prophet”[2] where an innovator as described by Machiavelli similar to Cyrus in this example is able to own a powerful vision whilst also having the practical ability to obtain control and exert his new order.
Source: https://t-tees.com
Category: WHICH
