HNRS 135 Ancient and Medieval History
Name: _______________________________
Study Guide: Machiavelli, The Prince and other writings
In the Norton Critical Edition read the writings by Machiavelli (through p. 135). Make notes in your text.
Answer the following questions in the space below or on the back of the sheet by providing two examples (each
with a brief direct quote—just enough to get the gist) from writings that answer each of the following questions.
Cite the text at the end of each quote within parentheses, using the title of the work (e.g. Letter to whom,
Exhortation, Discourses), chapter (from the Prince) or “Book” and chapter, and finally the page from the Norton
edition, e.g. (Discourses, Book I, chapter 37, p. 105). You will turn in this sheet at the end of the discussion.
What is the author’s purpose for the book, The Prince?
In The Prince, what role does the military and war play in rulership?
In The Prince, what moral values and attitudes are important for a prince?
In The Prince, what dangers to the state or his own person or power confront a prince?
How does his legation to Cesare Borgia inform Machiavelli’s political ideas?
How do the Discourses differ from The Prince?
What from his letters tell us of the origins of Machiavelli’s political ideas?