Machiavelli’s Warning: The Medici, Florence, Rome and New Princes

Abstract

In his dedication to The Prince, Machiavelli places himself in the position of the people who can discern the nature of princes; his text, however, suggests that he also, like a prince, understands the nature of the people. This double vision informs the reader throughout, as Machiavelli warns the Medici of the dangers to their rule while informing the people as to the weakness of their regime. This article further investigates the positive reference to Pope Sixtus IV, a reference that could not have endeared Machiavelli to the Medici. It then explores The Prince’s discourse around Pope Alexander VI and Cesare Borgia, both of whom would have been anathema to the Medici and Florentine people. Finally, Machiavelli draws a portrait of the new prince that echoes the hidden regal tyrant of Aristotle’s Politics. In conclusion, while Machiavelli’s Prince may have been instructive for the people, it could hardly have been favourably received by the Medici.