Question

According to Machiavelli, what was his purpose in writing The Prince?

Answer 1

Machiavelli had lost his political office and been imprisoned for a while when the Medicis regained control of Florence in 1512.He wrote 'The Prince' and presented it to Lorenzo di Piero de' Medici as a gift in the hope of getting his old government job back.

Answer 2

Machiavelli´s purpose in writing The Prince —one of the most notable and important books ever published, which changed the political landscape for ever after its appearance— was to present his knowledge about the nature of princes and their rule to statesmen. His aim was to show rulers the correct form of governing in order to secure their state—securing this by whatever means, even if immoral— and avoid rebellions from the people.