Filippo Del Lucchese provides an original interpretation of Machiavelli's thought as well as the debates surrounding his work over four centuries. Written with clarity and elegance, this book is likely to become a classic. Étienne Balibar, Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at University Paris-Nanterre An introduction to the political thought and philosophy of Machiavelli Niccolò Machiavelli was one of the most original and influential thinkers of early modern times. All students of Western political thought encounter his work. Nevertheless, his writing continues to puzzle scholars and readers who are uncertain how to deal with the seeming paradoxes they encounter. The Political Philosophy of Niccolò Machiavelli is a clear account of Machiavelli's thought, his major theories, and central ideas. It is also a critical engagement with his work which is not based on the mainstream, Cambridge school approach. Geared towards the specific requirements of students who need to reach a sound understanding of Machiavelli's ideas, it is the ideal companion to the study of this influential and challenging philosopher. Key features - An introduction to Machiavelli's life and the historical and theoretical context within which he developed his ideas. - A clear and detailed examination of the texts commonly encountered, including The Prince, The Discourses, The Florentine Histories and The Art of War. - A critical analysis of Machiavelli's most important concepts and the ways they continue to reverberate within Western political philosophy. - Examines his language and in particular central themes such as Virtue, Fortune, Conflict, History, Religion. Filippo del Lucchese is Lecturer in History of Political Thought at Brunel University - London and Senior Research Associate, Faculty of Humanities at the University of Johannesburg