Rejecting the traditional values of political theory, Machiavelli drew
upon his own experiences of office in the turbulent Florentine republic
to write his celebrated treatise on statecraft. While Machiavelli was
only one of the many Florentine "prophets of force," he differed from
the ruling elite in recognizing the complexity and fluidity of political
life.
Throughout history, some books have changed the world. They have
transformed the way we see ourselves--and each other. They have inspired
debate, dissent, war and revolution. They have enlightened, outraged,
provoked and comforted. They have enriched lives--and destroyed them.
Now, Penguin brings you the works of the great thinkers, pioneers,
radicals and visionaries whose ideas shook civilization, and helped make
us who we are. Penguin's Great Ideas series features twelve
groundbreaking works by some of history's most prodigious thinkers, and
each volume is beautifully packaged with a unique type-drive design that
highlights the bookmaker's art. Offering great literature in great
packages at great prices, this series is ideal for those readers who
want to explore and savor the Great Ideas that have shaped the world.