Customer Reviews

The Art of War & The Prince

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

The combination of these two works into one unified book shows how clearly Machiavelli saw the value of power. His vision was straightforward: Might Makes Right. Or, at least, morality is only important to the survivors. The application of hard, cold logic to the ends of grasping and wielding power was applied by Machiavelli in these two discourses with astonishing clarity.

In Machiavelli's philosophy, success was all important. His is the prime example of the doctrine of "The Ends Justify the Means." To win, to obtain and hold power and thereby achieve fame and glory was considered by Machiavelli to be the only worthy goal of those who had an opportunity to find greatness in the exercise of power.

The combination of these two important documents in one volume reinforces his view that success by any means is justifiable if one succeeds. After all, the winner writes the epitaph. Who can argue that the victor, with the reins of power firmly in his grasp, does not have the right to tell the story so his side is presented in the best possible light?

Machiavelli was a man of many talents and rare insight. His writing skill, the ability to effectively make his points is clearly shown in this edition which displays two different styles of presentation. His "Art of War" is presented as a series of dialogues. "The Prince" is done as a straight exposition. Both are superbly done.

His honest lessons, on how to use power, were revolutionary in their appeal to the rational mind. He pointed out how to profit from the best use of one's assets, and that remorse over spilt milk is a waste of time. Although he advises ruthlessness over kindness, the outstanding feature of his work is the appeal to absolute reason.

This particular volume, which combines his two greatest books, is well worth reading and re-reading. Both of these works are classics that were ahead of their time and undoubtedly will continue to be read and appreciated for another 500 years.

Two of the giants in military strategy are brought together in this special edition. I have now read 3 books in this series, and although "The Art of War" by Sun Tzu is still at the top, in my opinion, Machiavelli can't be denied his place in the pantheon of genius strategists. Although Machiavelli appears to have copied Sun Tzu's style, his aphorisms are still thought provoking, like of course, "The ends justify the means."

The product was in perfect conditions. The book it's one of the nicest editions of 'The Prince'. An excellent product.

The Prince is a 'how to' book for evil Princes - and if you don't believe me, read your history.

One of the best books I read after this one was about the family that Machiavelli consulted for and wrote these books for and about, the Borgia's.

Check it out: Machiavelli's Disciple: The True Story of the Borgia Pope

You will be astounded!

Not an attempt to modernize Machiavelli, this edition presents both works framed historically by the language and the content. Machiavelli is truly unequaled when it comes to court intrigue and backstabbing politics. It is as disturbing to read, as it is interesting. I much prefer Sun Tzu's "The Art of War," but having these two books together for such a great price convinced me to buy this entire series of special edition books for my husband.

I've had the art of war recomended to me by several people. As someone who is in retail/IT, it is an interesting read, but tough to follow. I believe that the version by Sun Tzu would be a little more appropriate for a business/management setting.

This book is written in archaic English. It is difficult to read because, over time, spelling, syntax, word meaning and sentence structure have changed. In addition, most sentences are very long with many sub clauses.

The publisher does not identify the translator, nor is the date of translation given. I suspect was translated around the 1600's.

If you enjoy untangling long complicated sentences using words that may not mean the same thing as today, have fun.

i haven't started the prince yet but i ordered this and sun tzu's art of war and both are a great read

This duo is an awesome set of books compiled into one. If you really enjoy the thoughts of war and those of a monarch, you would find this book amazing. The editing in this edition of the book is poor at best and in some places has completely taken away the emphasis of statements.

I personally went out of my way to purchase this book because I have heard so many great things about Machiavelli and his school of thought. This book only reinforces my view of him and his work. You won't find things equivocated in this text; only cut and dry info for every man/woman who plans to take over the world, or possibly a small country.