Machiavelli Analysis Essay Example

beliefs but they were also used for instructional purposes.

Machiavelli used his early diplomatic missions as the foundation for a concise guideline that he sent to Raffaelo Girolami, a Florentine diplomat in Spain. In this letter,Machiavelli discussed not only his accomplishments but also presented opportunities for improvement.The purpose of the letter extended beyond advising on a specific situation;Machiavelli's letters serve as a versatile learning tool that can be applied to any situation. They not only showcase his theoretical knowledge in politics but also demonstrate how he continually improves through each new challenge. His writings reveal deep insight and extensive political understanding, highlighting his commitment to paying attention to even the smallest details. This dedication is most evident in the advice and instructions he provides to inexperienced government officials. Machiavelli places great importance on clear communication in written correspondence, aiming for recipients to feel as if they are personally present. He stresses the need for thoroughness in conveying subject matter, reflecting his belief in documenting and considering every detail carefully. According to Gilbert (1961, 110), Machiavelli advises less experienced diplomats to write more rather than less, emphasizing the value of remembering details and staying informed about current events.

Machiavelli's writings demonstrate his extensive knowledge gained from studying the past, particularly in understanding politicians and military leaders. In The Prince, he discusses historical figures like Cyrus, Caesar, and Alexander to exemplify how successful leaders have thrived on specific ideals. By learning from past experiences, Machiavelli argues that success can be achieved in the present. He emphasizes the importance of emulating great men of the past and cites examples such as Cyrus written by Xenophon and Scipio's adherence to desirable

traits for achieving glory. Machiavelli defends his stance by stating that there is no shame in following others' footsteps. This type of emulation not only benefits personal success but also benefits everyone else's success.
In Machiavelli's letters, his ability to learn from past leaders and study great thinkers is evident as he frequently quotes Dante, suggesting a strong influence on his life. Machiavelli's letter opens with a quote from Dante's Inferno, which he uses to discuss the importance of perseverance through hardships. This reference serves both academic purposes and reflects Machiavelli's personal belief in the statement. The fast-paced political changes and rampant corruption during his time likely played a significant role in shaping his beliefs. Even before Machiavelli's birth, Florence was ruled by Cosimo Medici, who skillfully ensured that his favorites held positions of power.The enduring relevance of political manipulation by the wealthy can be traced back to Machiavelli's understanding of human nature. He witnessed the rampant corruption and power accumulation that occurred, leading him to recognize the deceitful tactics employed by politicians and ordinary citizens alike. Machiavelli also acknowledged that humanity as a whole is not always driven by noble intentions. Consequently, he realized that while it was important for leaders to provide for their people, excessive focus on their welfare could result in destruction. This sentiment is evident in his quote "he who sacrifices his own convenience for the benefit of others only loses his own and receives no gratitude from them" (Gilbert 1961,140).

Machiavelli, known for his pragmatism and logical nature in politics, also had a poetic side to his character. During his exile from Florence, he resided on his farm outside the

city and wrote personal letters discussing various activities in his life. Among these discussions of daily gossip, Machiavelli frequently expressed his fondness for poetry. In one letter, he stated, "I read of their tender passions and their loves, remember mine, enjoy myself awhile in that sort of dreaming." These leisurely pursuits may have contributed to his informal philosophical training. It was during this period that he produced renowned works such as The Mandrake comedy which showcased a more lighthearted side of him. Despite being a dreamer as well as a politician, Machiavelli firmly believed that emotions should not play a part in politics. He argued that ruling justly required calculation without being influenced by passions or contemporary conventions of right and wrong. Through his personal experiences, education, and lessons learned from the past, Machiavelli exerted a lasting influence on the world with his political insights and theories (Fleisher).Even after 470 years, the works of an unknown group of individuals continue to inspire and generate debate about politics and ruler conduct. The exact contributors may never be known, but their undeniable impact on the world remains evident.