Written in 1516 during his exile, Niccolò Machiavelli's The Discourses is a three-book commentary on the first ten volumes of Livy's history of the Roman Republic, focusing on its founding, maintenance, and protection. Machiavelli applies Roman governance principles to contemporary republics, discussing statecraft, foreign relations, and leadership. Discussions on war and conflict are present throughout the text.

The Discourses by Niccolò Machiavelli offers a profound exploration of republican governance and political theory, appreciated for its timeless analysis and application to modern politics. Praised for clarity and insight, some critics find it dense and challenging. Overall, it remains an essential read for political philosophy enthusiasts.

Readers who enjoy The Discourses by Niccolò Machiavelli are likely interested in political theory, history, and philosophy. Comparable to fans of The Republic by Plato and On Liberty by John Stuart Mill, they appreciate classical works that explore governance, civic virtue, and the mechanics of republics.

Informative / Challenging / Contemplative / Mysterious / Inspirational

- The Discourses is considered a foundational text on republicanism and was inspired by Livy's history of Rome, reflecting Machiavelli's interest in classical antiquity and its political structures.
- Although more optimistic about human nature than in The Prince, Machiavelli's The Discourses emphasizes the importance of civic virtue and active citizenship in maintaining a free state.
- Unusual for works of its time, The Discourses advocates for a mixed government system that includes elements of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy, which influenced later political thinkers and the development of modern democratic ideas.

**Niccolò Machiavelli**  
A diplomat and military commander from the Italian Renaissance who writes influential political works during his exile, including one that examines the structure of the Roman Republic.

**Livy**  
An ancient historian whose writings provide a detailed account of Roman history, serving as the source material for Machiavelli's commentary on republican virtues.

**Lucius Junius Brutus**  
A legendary figure credited with founding the Roman Republic by overthrowing Rome's monarchy, embodying the bravery and virtue that Machiavelli admires.

**Hannibal**  
A Carthaginian general known for his strategic prowess, whose attempts to conquer Rome are used by Machiavelli as a contrast to Roman military leadership.  

**Scipio Africanus**  
A Roman general celebrated for his bold tactics in defeating Hannibal, exemplifying the daring leadership praised by Machiavelli.  

**Fabius Verrucosus**  
A Roman consul whose cautious defensive strategies against Hannibal are highlighted by Machiavelli as effective in certain circumstances but less suitable elsewhere.  

**Julius Caesar**  
A military and political leader whose dominance over Rome is presented as a key moment leading to the republic's downfall and eventual transition to autocratic rule.  

**The Medicis**  
An influential Italian family known for their periodic rule over Florence, impacting Machiavelli's career and political landscape during his lifetime.  

**Piero Soderini**  
The head of the Florentine Republic whose attempts to govern without sufficient authority are critiqued by Machiavelli for failing to maintain control.  

**Girolamo Savonarola**  
A religious reformer who briefly leads Florence after ousting the Medicis, recognized for his zealous governing style.  

**Marius and Sulla**  
Two Roman consuls whose political maneuvers illustrate the tensions and conflicts that contribute to the weakening of the Roman Republic's structure.

Niccolò Machiavelli

Adult

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Discourses on Livy

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Discourses and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Discourses Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Introduction-Book 1, Chapter 30

The Discourses Introduction-Book 1, Chapter 30 Summary & Analysis

Book 1, Chapters 31-60

The Discourses Book 1, Chapters 31-60 Summary & Analysis

Book 2, Preface-Chapter 33

The Discourses Book 2, Preface-Chapter 33 Summary & Analysis

Book 3, Chapters 1-20

The Discourses Book 3, Chapters 1-20 Summary & Analysis

Book 3, Chapters 21-49

The Discourses Book 3, Chapters 21-49 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

The Discourses Key Figures

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Themes

The Discourses Themes

Index of Terms

The Discourses Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

The Discourses Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Discourses Essay Topics

The Discourses

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Discourses?

Reading Age

Book Details