Niccolo Machiavelli: quotes and life of the son of the Renaissance

"War can not be avoided, it can only be delayed," said the famous Niccolo Machiavelli.

He lived and worked in the distant Renaissance, but the world-famous book of Niccolo Machiavelli "Sovereign" still evokes a wide resonance in society. Some consider it a desktop tool for a competent manager, while others try to criticize everything written in it.

One way or another, but his fundamental work is still in demand - readable and deeply discussed.

Niccolo Machiavelli: the life path of the creator

"The least evil is a greater good," Machiavelli said. This principle still helps to make a decision to many in hard times.

Niccolo was born in the distant 1469, when most European countries just stepped on the path to the revival of ancient traditions. His family, once impoverished noblemen, lived near Florence, in the small village of San Casciano. It was here that the history of Machiavelli began, whose books remain the cultural heritage of modern times.

Being still young, he was able to get a decent education: an ideal knowledge of Latin was the most important advantage of Machiavelli. Quotations of ancient authors, their works and thoughts had a significant impact on the then young Niccolo. However, it should be noted that he did not share with admirers the admiration for the era of antiquity.

Machiavelli linked his life with politics - at first he was the secretary of the Second Chancery. Then - the Council of Ten. He said: "Do not build modest plans for the future - they are not able to excite the soul" - and fully adhered to this principle throughout life. For more than 14 years, he served his country faithfully. During this time he managed to visit many Italian states, Germany and France.

When the Medici came to power, Machiavelli had to leave his post. Since he was a Republican, he was accused of plotting against the rulers, after which he was expelled for a whole year from the city. His haven was a small estate of Sant Andrea.

It is from this moment begins the creative activity of Niccolo Machiavelli, whose quotes are still actively used by politicians and heads of state (it is worth noting, not always in a positive way).

Creativity by Niccolo Machiavelli

Being in exile brought Machiavelli not difficulties, but on the contrary - the opportunity to realize his creative potential. Here he is actively engaged in writing his main work - "The Emperor".

It was this book that brought the popularity of Machiavelli. Quotations from it instantly spread not only across Europe, but also far beyond its borders.

Popular quotes from the book "The Emperor"

• "End justifies the means".
• "The Emperor is not able to change his people, but he can bestow him with mercy."
• "It always happens that other people's armor is heavy, uncomfortable or not fit in size."
• "Man is more attached to those to whom he has done good, and not to those who have done good to him."
• "Those who hope less for fate, they retain power more."

Machiavelli and the present

From the pen of Machiavelli came not one political treatise. In addition to the world famous "Sovereign," the world saw several other creations that also caused a wide resonance in society:

• "History of Florence";
• "On the military art";
• "Discourses on the first decade of Titus Livia";
• "Golden donkey" (poetic arrangement);
• "How to deal with the insurgent inhabitants of Valdikyan".

All books were perceived positively by the contemporaries of Machiavelli. Quotations from them did not leave the lips of politicians and those who showed an interest in public administration.

However, after some time, Niccolo's views were sharply criticized, in particular, for the main thesis - "to achieve the goal by any means," which has now become a catch phrase - Finis sanctificat media. It is this principle that formed the basis of the term "Machiavellianism", which became a characteristic feature of the ruler, which does not neglect in any way to achieve his own goal.

Anyway, but the works of Machiavelli deserve attention and careful study. His thoughts will for a long time act as a point of contact of various political ideologies and views.