Discourses of Livy



Abstract

The paper gives a brief review and critical analysis of Machiavelli's work, mainly The Discourses of Livy. It also sheds light on writers' concepts of Leadership, form of government and power. Machiavelli's vision of Republic and Italy is highlighted in Discourses of Livy. The Discussion of the paper holds the writers' views in both, The Prince and Discourses. It is an argument on Machiavelli as product of his thought and society's views.

Introduction1

Introduction of the Writer1

Discourses of Livy3

Endnotes11

Critical Analysis of Discourses of Livy

Introduction

Discourses of Livy are a political history of Rome in 16th century. Machiavelli explains that how can we learn about ruling the state, from history and how can past experiences be useful for present times. Ancient Romans are portrays as ideal role models as compare to contemporaries. In the first book, the writer describes his modes for good governance that is people's participation is importance. So the ruler can be among them, who think for the common benefit. The second book deals with his admirations of past and condemnation of present political practices that are done in his time. It also emphasizes on developing relations with other countries. Warfare is also one of the highlights.

Introduction of the Writer

Niccolo Machiavelli is one of the outstanding writer and intellectual that Italian Renaissance ever produced. He was born at Florence, Italy, on May 3, 1469. He was a part of public services in his early age. He later employed in diplomatic assignments to other cities as well as to other countries. He lost all his jobs when Medici came in power in 1512. Machiavelli was put into jail and tortured immensely. On his release, he returned to his country and dedicated himself to studying and writing, during this time he produced his most fine and celebrated work, “The Prince”. Machiavelli died on June 21, 1527.

His famous work, The Prince, is diversely interpreted. Patriotism is probably his main motive but his treatment of moral values of political lead put the question on his name, in his country. Machiavelli's Discourses of Livy shed light on various topics of his other art works, specially “The Prince”. One of his works “Art of War” represents his life in military. “History of Florence”, “Life of Castruccio Castracani” are some of the most celebrated products of this man of words who was a diplomat, historian and a poet. Only a few people can represent a vivid picture of a whole era like that. His book represents the clear picture of political plight in an era of Italian Renaissance, regardless of the fact, what his ideals about the moral values of the ruling class. The Prince

The Prince deserves all the fame; because of all Machiavelli's book it is the most distinctiveness. It is the best-known work of him. However some literary discussions over shadow the real purpose of this writing. Some relate it with a handbook of tyrants and others regard it pure sarcasm upon ...