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Comparing Machiavelli And The Renaissance

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Even though people thought change was bad, Machiavelli writes about the renaissance rebirth because renaissance was the rebirth and change is good for the state. As stated in the Prince, Machiavelli believed in humanism and realism. “By pursuing, cities become superior by the interests of the community as oppose to the interest of private individuals” (Discourses, Bk.2, Ch.2). Interpreted from the readings, humanism was a system of action in which human interest, value and self-respect conquered and realism was being able to accept a situation and deal with it consequently. Listening to the people opinions meant greater contribution from them. Machiavelli suggests that if a Prince was given a situation he must handle it accordingly. First …show more content…

These two attributes are the main characteristics that determines the life path of every individual in the city. In his writing, he discusses in different situations but same verdict, that power is everything. If ever received the power, do whatever you need to, to stay in control of the power. Power creates change. The Renaissance was the direct outcome of change. The trick to staying in control was to recognize the needs of the people. The argument that Machiavelli portrayed in the Prince, was how an individual handles a situation, whether it is serendipitous luck or free will. “Many believe that governing the affairs of the world are governed by luck and God, not even intelligent individuals can control them. Therefore, one should allow chance to have its way” (Machiavelli, 550). Elaborating on this argument, many people believe that if something goes wrong, gamble on luck. However, Machiavelli believed that a bold ruler could change his path of his political life with skills. Also, if a ruler awaits on luck instead of pursing his duties, the ruler will fail. As Machiavelli said, “A ruler will be destroyed when his luck changes, if he depends on his good fortune” (Machiavelli, 551). The winds of change will blow and another ruler will benefit from their newfound

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