The Prince: Critical Attributes and Issues of Concern
             In 1513, Italian politician Niccolo Machiavelli wrote the book The Prince. The book was written as a handbook for princes. It is written in short, concise paragraphs. According to Machiavelli, he did not use "fine phrases, with swelling, pompous words" (12). It is more instructional than theoretical. Machiavelli simply states what the different types of principalities are and what attributes are needed in order for a prince to achieve success and greatness. His text remains factual and never states whether a principality is a desirable form of government or not. The reasons Machiavelli had for writing The Prince have been disputed, but remain simple in explanation. In 1516, he presented the work to Lorenzo de'Medici. It was a gift, as stated in the Dedication of The Prince, (12-13). Machiavelli's work was based on "the knowledge of great men... and a continued study of ancient history" (12), which Machiavelli has stated as a testament of events he has observed thro!
             ughout his own life in politics; his own concrete, first-hand experiences.
             In order to completely understand the purpose of The Prince, one must first know the situation in Italy during its creation. Italy was in need of being consolidated into one power. Throughout the 1400's and 1500's, Italy had a continuous lack of unity and steady power. The leaders were always changing. Machiavelli wanted nothing else but to see Italy unite under a strong prince and prosper. Another important influence in The Prince's making was Machiavelli's own personal situation and history. In the years before writing The Prince, he had dedicated his
             life to serving his state; whether it was a republic or a principality. He was awarded positions as the Second Chancery and Secretary of the Council of Ten for War. A few years after this appointment and after the re...