Politics and Government

Discourses on Livy

Enriched edition. Insightful Analysis of Ancient Roman Politics and GovernanceBy Niccolò Machiavelli

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In "Discourses on Livy," Niccolò Machiavelli delves into the intricacies of Roman history to elucidate the principles of governance and civic virtue. Written in a time of political upheaval in Renaissance Italy, Machiavelli employs a rigorous analytical style that transcends mere narrative'—engaging in philosophical discourse on the balance of power, the dynamics of popular governance, and the importance of civic participation. His examination of ancient Roman figures serves to draw parallels and lessons applicable to contemporary governance, situating the work within the broader context of humanist thought and political theory of the 16th century. Machiavelli, often regarded as the father of modern political science, was shaped by the turbulent political landscape of his time, witnessing the rise and fall of principalities in Italy. His earlier work, "The Prince," while pragmatic, lacked the comprehensive exploration found in the "Discourses." This later work reflects his belief in republicanism and the potential for a balanced government, influenced by his personal experiences in diplomacy and political theory, as he sought to articulate a framework for stability and justice. For readers seeking a profound understanding of governance and its ethical ramifications, "Discourses on Livy" provides vital insights rooted in both history and philosophy. It is essential for those interested in the intersections of power, morality, and civic duty, rendering it a cornerstone text in the study of political thought. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes. - The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists. - A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing. - An Author Biography reveals milestones in the author's life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text. - A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings. - Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life. - Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Political Intrigue Rebellion War & Battle Betrayal

Audiobook details

GenrePolitics and Government

Length16 hrs 2 mins

Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices

FormateBook with Audio

Publish dateNov 16, 2023

LanguageEnglish

1Introduction

79CHAPTER IX.—Of the Causes which commonly give rise to Wars between States.

2Introduction

80CHAPTER X.—That contrary to the vulgar opinion, Money is not the Sinews of War.

3Synopsis

81CHAPTER XI.—That it were unwise to ally yourself a Prince who has Reputation rather than Strength.

4Historical Context

82CHAPTER XII.—Whether when Invasion is imminent it is better to anticipate or to await it.

5Author Biography

83CHAPTER XIII.—That Men rise from humble to high Fortunes rather by Fraud than by Force.

Show all chapters

6HEALTH.

84CHAPTER XIV.—That Men often err in thinking they can subdue Pride by Humility.

7BOOK I.

85CHAPTER XV.—That weak States are always dubious in their Resolves; and that tardy Resolves are always hurtful.

8PREFACE.

86CHAPTER XVI.—That the Soldiers of our days depart widely from the methods of ancient Warfare.

9CHAPTER I.—Of the Beginnings of Cities in general, and in particular of that of Rome.

87CHAPTER XVII.—What importance the Armies of the present day should allow to Artillery; and whether the commonly received opinion concerning it be just.

10CHAPTER II.—Of the various kinds of Government; and to which of them the Roman Commonwealth belonged.

88CHAPTER XVIII.—That the authority of the Romans and the example of ancient Warfare should make us hold Foot Soldiers of more account than Horse.

11CHAPTER III.—Of the Accidents which led in Rome to the creation of Tribunes of the People; whereby the Republic was made more perfect.

89CHAPTER XIX.—That Acquisitions made by ill-governed States and such as follow not the valiant methods of the Romans, tend rather to their Ruin than to their Aggrandizement.

12CHAPTER IV.—That the Dissensions between the Senate and Commons of Rome, made Rome free and powerful.

90CHAPTER XX.—Of the Dangers incurred by Princes or Republics who resort to Auxiliary or Mercenary Arms.

13CHAPTER V.—Whether the Guardianship of public Freedom is safer in the hands of the Commons or of the Nobles; and whether those who seek to acquire Power or they who seek to maintain it are the greater cause of Commotions.

91CHAPTER XXI.—That Capua was the first City to which the Romans sent a Prætor; nor there, until four hundred years after they began to make War.

14CHAPTER VI.—Whether it was possible in Rome to contrive such a Government as would have composed the Differences between the Commons and the Senate.

92CHAPTER XXII.—That in matters of moment Men often judge amiss.

15CHAPTER VII.—That to preserve Liberty in a State there must exist the Right to accuse.

93CHAPTER XXIII.—That in chastising their Subjects when circumstances required it the Romans always avoided half-measures.

16CHAPTER VIII.—That Calumny is as hurtful in a Commonwealth as the power to accuse is useful.

94CHAPTER XXIV.—That, commonly, Fortresses do much more Harm than Good

17CHAPTER IX.—That to give new Institutions to a Commonwealth, or to reconstruct old Institutions on an entirely new basis, must be the work of one Man.

95CHAPTER XXV.—That he who attacks a City divided against itself, must not think to get possession of it through its Divisions.

18CHAPTER X.—That in proportion as the Founder of a Kingdom or Commonwealth merits Praise, he who founds a Tyranny deserves Blame.

96CHAPTER XXVI.—That Taunts and Abuse breed Hatred against him who uses them, without yielding him any Advantage.

19CHAPTER XI.—Of the Religion of the Romans.

97CHAPTER XXVII.—That prudent Princes and Republics should be content to have obtained a Victory; for, commonly, when they are not, theft-Victory turns to Defeat.

20CHAPTER XII.—That it is of much moment to make account of Religion; and that Italy, through the Roman Church, being wanting therein, has been ruined.

98CHAPTER XXVIII.—That to neglect the redress of Grievances, whether public or private, is dangerous for a Prince or Commonwealth.

21CHAPTER XIII.—Of the use the Romans made of Religion in giving Institutions to their City, in carrying out their Enterprises, and in quelling Tumults.

99CHAPTER XXIX.—That Fortune obscures the minds of Men when she would not have them hinder her Designs.

22CHAPTER XIV.—That the Romans interpreted the Auspices to meet the occasion; and made a prudent show of observing the Rites of Religion even when forced to disregard them; and any who rashly slighted Religion they punished.

100CHAPTER XXX.—That really powerful Princes and, Commonwealths do not buy Friendships with Money, but with their Valour and the Fame of their Prowess.

23CHAPTER XV.—How the Samnites, as a last resource in their broken Fortunes, had recourse to Religion.

101CHAPTER XXXI.—Of the Danger of trusting banished Men.

24CHAPTER XVI.—That a People accustomed to live under a Prince, if by any accident it become free, can hardly preserve that Freedom.

102CHAPTER XXXII.—In how many Ways the Romans gained Possession of Towns.

25CHAPTER XVII.—That a corrupt People obtaining Freedom can hardly preserve it.

103CHAPTER XXXIII.—That the Romans intrusted the Captains of their Armies with the fullest Powers.

26CHAPTER XVIII.—How a Free Government existing in a corrupt City may be preserved, or not existing may be created.

104BOOK III.

27CHAPTER XIX.—After a strong Prince a weak Prince may maintain himself: but after one weak Prince no Kingdom can stand a second.

105CHAPTER I.—For a Sect or Commonwealth to last long, it must often be brought back to its Beginnings.

28CHAPTER XX.—That the consecutive Reigns of two valiant Princes produce great results: and that well-ordered Commonwealths are assured of a Succession of valiant Rulers by whom their Power and Growth are rapidly extended.

106CHAPTER II.—That on occasion it is wise to feign Folly.

29CHAPTER XXI.—That it is a great reproach to a Prince or to a Commonwealth to be without a national Army.

107CHAPTER III.—That to preserve a newly acquired Freedom we must slay the Sons of Brutus.

30CHAPTER XXII.—What is to be noted in the combat of the three Roman Horatii and the three Alban Curiatii.

108CHAPTER IV.—That an Usurper is never safe in his Princedom while those live whom he has deprived of it.

31CHAPTER XXIII.—That we should never hazard our whole Fortunes where we put not forth our entire Strength; for which reason to guard a Defile is often hurtful.

109CHAPTER V.—How an Hereditary King may come to lose his Kingdom.

32CHAPTER XXIV.—That well-ordered States always provide Rewards and Punishments for their Citizens; and never set off Deserts against Misdeeds.

110CHAPTER VI.—Of Conspiracies.

33CHAPTER XXV.—That he who would reform the Institutions of a free State, must retain at least the semblance of old Ways.

111CHAPTER VII.—Why it is that changes from Freedom to Servitude, and from Servitude to Freedom, are sometimes made without Bloodshed, but at other times reek with Blood.

34CHAPTER XXVI.—A new Prince in a City or Province of which he has taken Possession, ought to make Everything new.

112CHAPTER VIII.—That he who would effect Changes in a Commonwealth, must give heed to its Character and Condition

35CHAPTER XXVII.—That Men seldom know how to be wholly good or wholly bad.

113CHAPTER IX.—That to enjoy constant good Fortune we must change with the Times.

36CHAPTER XXVIII.—Whence it came that the Romans were less ungrateful to their Citizens than were the Athenians.

114CHAPTER X.—That a Captain cannot escape Battle when his Enemy forces it on him at all risks.

37CHAPTER XXIX.—Whether a People or a Prince is the more ungrateful.

115CHAPTER XI.—That one who has to contend with many, though he be weaker than they, will prevail if he can withstand their first onset.

38CHAPTER XXX.—How Princes and Commonwealths may avoid the vice of Ingratitude; and how a Captain or Citizen may escape being undone by it.

116CHAPTER XII.—A prudent Captain will do what he can to make it necessary for his own Soldiers to fight, and to relieve his Enemy from that necessity.

39CHAPTER XXXI.—That the Roman Captains were never punished with extreme severity for Misconduct; and where loss resulted to the Republic merely through their Ignorance or Want of Judgment, were not punished at all.

117CHAPTER XIII.—Whether we may trust more to a valiant Captain with a weak Army, or to a valiant Army with a weak Captain.

40CHAPTER XXXII.—That a Prince or Commonwealth should not delay conferring Benefits until they are themselves in difficulties.

118CHAPTER XIV.—Of the effect produced in Battle by strange and unexpected Sights or Sounds.

41CHAPTER XXXIII.—When a Mischief has grown up in, or against a State, it is safer to temporize with than to meet it with Violence.

119CHAPTER XV.—That one and not many should head an Army: and why it is harmful to have more Leaders than one.

42CHAPTER XXXIV.—That the authority of the Dictator did good and not harm to the Roman Republic: and that it is not those Powers which are given by the free suffrages of the People, but those which ambitious Citizens usurp for themselves, that are pernicious to a State.

120CHAPTER XVI.—That in Times of Difficulty true Worth is sought after; whereas in quiet Times it is not the most deserving, but those who are recommended by Wealth or Connection who are most in favour.

43CHAPTER XXXV—Why the Creation of the Decemvirate in Rome, although brought about by the free and open Suffrage of the Citizens, was hurtful to the Liberties of that Republic

121CHAPTER XVII.—That we are not to offend a Man, and then send him to fill an important Office or Command.

44CHAPTER XXXVI.—That Citizens who have held the higher Offices of a Commonwealth should not disdain the lower.

122CHAPTER XVIII.—That it is the highest Quality of a Captain to be able to forestall the designs of his Adversary.

45CHAPTER XXXVII.—Of the Mischief bred in Rome by the Agrarian Law: and how it is a great source of disorder in a Commonwealth to pass a Law opposed to ancient Usage and with stringent retrospective Effect.

123CHAPTER XIX.—Whether Indulgence or Severity be more necessary for controlling a Multitude.

46CHAPTER XXXVIII.—That weak Republics are irresolute and undecided; and that the course they may take depends more on Necessity than Choice.

124CHAPTER XX.—How one humane act availed more with the men of Falerii, than all the might of the Roman Arms.

47CHAPTER XXXIX.—That often the same Accidents are seen to befall different Nations.

125CHAPTER XXI.—How it happened that Hannibal pursuing a course contrary to that taken by Scipio, wrought the same results in Italy which the other achieved in Spain.

48CHAPTER XL.—Of the creation of the Decemvirate in Rome, and what therein is to be noted. Wherein among other Matters is shown how the same Causes may lead to the Safety or to the Ruin of a Commonwealth.

126CHAPTER XXII.—That the severity of Manlius Torquatus and the gentleness of Valerius Corvinus won for both the same Glory.

49CHAPTER XLI.—That it is unwise to pass at a bound from leniency to severity, or to a haughty bearing from a humble.

127CHAPTER XXIII.—Why Camillus was banished from Rome.

50CHAPTER XLII.—How easily Men become corrupted.

128CHAPTER XXIV.—That prolonged Commands brought Rome to Servitude.

51CHAPTER XLIII.—That Men fighting in their own Cause make good and resolute Soldiers.

129CHAPTER XXV.—_Of the poverty of Cincinnatus and of many other Roman Citizens.

52CHAPTER XLIV.—That the Multitude is helpless without a Head: and that we should not with the same breath threaten and ask leave.

130CHAPTER XXVI.—How Women are a cause of the ruin of States.

53CHAPTER XLV.—That it is of evil example, especially in the Maker of a Law, not to observe the Law when made: and that daily to renew acts of injustice in a City is most hurtful to the Governor.

131CHAPTER XXVII.—How a divided City may be reunited, and how it is a false opinion that to hold Cities in subjection they must be kept divided.

54CHAPTER XLVI.—That Men climb from one step of Ambition to another, seeking at first to escape Injury and then to injure others.

132CHAPTER XXVIII.—That a Republic must keep an eye on what its Citizens are about; since often the seeds of a Tyranny lie hidden under a semblance of generous deeds.

55CHAPTER XLVII.—That though Men deceive themselves in Generalities, in Particulars they judge truly.

133CHAPTER XXIX.—That the Faults of a People are due to its Prince.

56CHAPTER XLVIII.—He who would not have an Office bestowed on some worthless or wicked Person, should contrive that it be solicited by one who is utterly worthless and wicked, or else by one who is in the highest degree noble and good.

134CHAPTER XXX.—That a Citizen who seeks by his personal influence to render signal service to his Country, must first stand clear of Envy. How a City should prepare for its defence on the approach of an Enemy.

57CHAPTER XLIX.—That if Cities which, like Rome, had their beginning in Freedom, have had difficulty in framing such Laws as would preserve their Freedom, Cities which at the first have been in Subjection will find this almost impossible.

135CHAPTER XXXI.—That strong Republics and valiant Men preserve through every change the same Spirit and Bearing.

58CHAPTER L.—That neither any Council nor any Magistrate should have power to bring the Government of a City to a stay.

136CHAPTER XXXII.—Of the methods which some have used to make Peace impossible.

59CHAPTER LI.—What a Prince or Republic does of Necessity, should seem to be done by Choice.

137CHAPTER XXXIII.—That to insure victory in battle you must inspire your Men with confidence in one another and in you.

60CHAPTER LII.—That to check the arrogance of a Citizen who is growing too powerful in a State, there is no safer Method, or less open to objection, than to forestall him in those Ways whereby he seeks to advance himself.

138CHAPTER XXXIV.—By what reports, rumours, or surmises the Citizens of a Republic are led to favour a Fellow-citizen: and-whether the Magistracies are bestowed with better judgment by a People or by a Prince.

61CHAPTER LIII.—That the People, deceived by a false show of Advantage, often desire what would be their Ruin; and that large Hopes and brave Promises easily move them.

139CHAPTER XXXV.—Of the Danger incurred in being the first to recommend new Measures; and that the more unusual the Measures the greater the Danger.

62CHAPTER LIV.—Of the boundless Authority which a great Man may use to restrain an excited Multitude.

140CHAPTER XXXVI.—Why it has been and still may be affirmed of the Gauls, that at the beginning of a fray they are more than Men, but afterwards less than Women.

63CHAPTER LV.—That Government is easily carried on in a City wherein the body of the People is not corrupted: and that a Princedom is impossible where Equality prevails, and a Republic where it does not.

141CHAPTER XXXVII.—Whether a general engagement should be preceded by skirmishes; and how, avoiding these, we may get knowledge of a new Enemy.

64CHAPTER LVI.—That when great Calamities are about to befall a City or Country, Signs are seen to presage, and Seers arise who foretell them.

142CHAPTER XXXVIII.—Of the Qualities of a Captain in whom his Soldiers can confide.

65CHAPTER LVII.—That the People are strong collectively, but individually weak.

143CHAPTER XXXIX.—That a Captain should have good knowledge of Places.

66CHAPTER LVIII.—That a People is wiser and more constant than a Prince

144CHAPTER XL.—That Fraud is fair in War.

67CHAPTER LIX.—To what Leagues or Alliances we may most trust; whether those we make with Commonwealths or those we make with Princes.

145CHAPTER XLI.—That our Country is to be defended by Honour or by Dishonour; and in either way is well defended.

68CHAPTER LX.—That the Consulship and all the other Magistracies in Rome were given without respect to Age.

146CHAPTER XLII.—That Promises made on Compulsion are not to be observed.

69BOOK II.

147CHAPTER XLIII.—That Men born in the same Province retain through all Times nearly the same Character.

70PREFACE.

148CHAPTER XLIV.—That where ordinary methods fail, Hardihood and Daring often succeed.

71CHAPTER I.—Whether the Empire acquired by the Romans was more due to Valour or to Fortune.

149CHAPTER XLV.—Whether in battle it is better to await and repel the Enemy&#x27;s attack, or to anticipate it by an impetuous onset.

72CHAPTER II.—With what Nations the Romans had to contend, and how stubborn these were in defending their Freedom.

150CHAPTER XLVI.—How the Characteristics of Families come to be perpetuated.

73CHAPTER III.—That Rome became great by destroying the Cities which lay round about her, and by readily admitting strangers to the rights of Citizenship.

151CHAPTER XLVII.—That love of his Country should lead a good Citizen to forget private Wrongs.

74CHAPTER IV.—That Commonwealths have followed three Methods for extending their Power.

152CHAPTER XLVIII.—That on finding an Enemy make what seems a grave blunder, we should suspect some fraud to lurk behind.

75CHAPTER V.—That changes in Sects and Tongues, and the happening of Floods and Pestilences, obliterate the Memory of the Past.

153CHAPTER XLIX.—That a Commonwealth to preserve its Freedom has constant need of new Ordinances. Of the services in respect of which Quintius Fabius received the surname of Maximus.

76CHAPTER VI.—Of the Methods followed by the Romans in making War.

154Analysis

77CHAPTER VII.—Of the Quantity of Land assigned by the Romans to each Colonist.

155Reflection

78CHAPTER VIII.—Why certain Nations leave their ancestral Seats and overflow the Countries of others.

156Memorable Quotes