In a series of poignant vignettes a preeminent historian makes a compelling case for
Machiavelli as an unjustly maligned figure with valuable political insights that resonate as
strongly today as they did in his time. Whenever a tempestuous period in history begins
Machiavelli is summoned because he is known as one for philosophizing in dark times. In fact
since his death in 1527 we have never ceased to read him to pull ourselves out of torpors. But
what do we really know about this man apart from the term invented by his detractors to refer
to that political evil Machiavellianism? It was Machiavelli's luck to be disappointed by
every statesman he encountered throughout his life-that was why he had to write The Prince. If
the book endeavors to dissociate political action from common morality the question still
remains today not why but for whom Machiavelli wrote. For princes or for those who want to
resist them? Is the art of governing to take power or to keep it? And what is "the people?" Can
they govern themselves? Beyond cynical advice for the powerful Machiavelli meditates
profoundly on the idea of popular sovereignty because the people know best who oppresses them.
With verve and a delightful erudition Patrick Boucheron sheds light on the life and works of
this unclassifiable visionary illustrating how we can continue to use him as a guide in times
of crisis.
