Machiavelli: Selected Political Writings

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Here are The Prince and the most important of the Discourses newly translated into spare, vivid English. Why a new translation? “Machiavelli was never the dull, worthy, pedantic author who appears in the pages of other translations,” says David Wootton in his Introduction. “In the pages that follow I have done my best to let him speak in his own voice.” (And indeed, Wootton’s Machiavelli does just that when the occasion demands: renderings of that most problematic of words, virtù, are in each instance followed by the Italian).  Notes, a map, and an altogether remarkable Introduction no less authoritative for being grippingly readable, help make this edition an ideal first encounter with Machiavelli for any student of history and political theory.

Reviews:

“The Introduction is vibrant, comprehensive and persuasive. Manages to address the needs of undergraduates while constituting an original contribution to contemporary scholarship. Bravo!”
     —Alan Houston, University of California, San Diego

“Wootton’s Introduction is an excellent piece of work that offers both scholars and students a valuable guide to Machiavelli’s texts.”
     —Maurizio Viroli, Princeton University 

“This text is perfect for providing in a single text a balanced presentation of Machiavelli’s work. This works excellently in countering general perceptions of a more severe Machiavelli by those familiar only with The Prince. The selections from the Discourses are well chosen.”
     —Brian Caza, Georgetown College

“Professor Wootton has done well in choosing the most significant passages in the Discourses. His scholarship is of the high order one expects of him.”
     —J. H. Hexter, Washington University

About the Author:

David Wootton is Anniversary Professor of History, University of York.