MACHIAVELLI: THE PRINCE: Themes and Ideas During Machiavelli’s time, society was much different than it had been for previous philosophers. Instead of storing up good works, so as to enjoy paradise, as the medieval man did, the Renaissance man was interested in all things, enjoyed life, strove for worldly acclaim and wealth, and had a deep interest in classical civilizations. He was born at a time of conflict within Florence, Italy, between the republican …showed first 75 words of 1527 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1527 total…The Prince has become a prerequisite to holding office. Machiavelli, slightly ahead of his times, describes a ruler who presents an appearance of greatness, composed of every awesome quality that would be desired in a ruler, yet where those of society can not see him he is to be evil, malicious, manipulative and dissembling. Though lacking moral integrity--as most politicians do--this proposed ruler has proven successful and Machiavelli’s “ideal” is as he wanted it--real.