“War cannot be avoided, it can only be delayed,” said the famous Niccolò Machiavelli.
Он жил и творил в далекую эпоху Возрождения, но The world-famous book by Niccolò Machiavelli, The Sovereign, still causes a wide resonance in society. Some people consider it as a manual for literate managers, others try to criticize what is written in it.
One way or another, but his fundamental work still remains in demand - readable and deeply discussed.
Niccolo Machiavelli: the life path of the creator
"The smallest evil is a greater good," said Machiavelli. This principle still helps to make decisions in many difficult times.
Niccolò was born in the distant 1469,when most European countries only set foot on the path of 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.
While still young, he was able to get decenteducation: the perfect knowledge of the Latin language was the main advantage of Machiavelli. Quotes of ancient authors, their works and thoughts had a significant impact on the then young Niccolo. However, it is worth noting that he did not share his admiration with the age of antiquity with others.
Machiavelli connected his life with politics -at first he was secretary of the Second Office. Then - the Council of Ten. He said: “Do not build modest plans for the future - they are not able to agitate the soul” - and fully adhered to this principle throughout life. For over 14 years he devotedly served his state. During this time he managed to visit many Italian states, Germany and France.
When the Medici House came to power, MachiavelliI had to leave my post. Since he was a Republican, he was accused of plotting against the rulers, after which he was expelled from the city for a whole year. His home was a small estate of Sant Andrea.
From this moment begins the creativethe activity of Niccolò Machiavelli, whose quotations are still actively used by politicians and heads of state to date (it is worth noting, not always in a positive way).
Creativity Niccolo Machiavelli
Being in exile brought Machiavelli not difficulties, but on the contrary - the ability to realize his creative potential. Here he is actively engaged in writing his main work - "Sovereign".
This book brought the popularity of Machiavelli. Quotes from it instantly spread not only in Europe, but also far beyond its borders.
Popular quotes from the book "The Emperor"
- "End justifies the means".
- "A sovereign cannot change his people, but he can bestow mercy upon him."
- "It always happens that other people's armor is heavy, uncomfortable, or does not fit in size."
- "A person is more attached to those to whom he has done good, and not to those who have done good to him."
- "Whoever hopes for fate less holds more power".
Machiavelli and Modernity
From the pen of Machiavelli came out more than 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 art of war";
- "Discourse on the first decade of Titus Libya";
- "Golden ass" (verse transcription);
- "How to deal with the insurgent inhabitants of the Valdichiana".
All books were perceived positively by Machiavelli’s contemporaries. Quotes from them did not descend from the lips of politicians and those who showed an interest in public administration.
However, after some time, Niccolò’s viewsreceived sharp criticism, in particular, for the main thesis - "to achieve the goal by any means", which has now become a catch phrase - Finis sanctificat media. It was this principle that formed the basis of the term "Machiavellianism", which became a characteristic feature of the ruler, not neglecting any method for the sake of achieving his own goal.
One way or another, but the works of Machiavelli deserve attention and careful study. For a long time his thoughts will act as a point of contact for various political ideologies and views.
