On Li Wei (Library of the Centuries)

Author: (Italian) Machiavelli, translated by Feng Keli
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: This book is a commentary on the first 10 volumes of Livy's History of Rome. It is a nostalgic, virtuous handbook for republicans. In this work, Machiavelli discusses his major views on politics, morality, fate, and necessity. He advises citizens, leaders, reformers, and founders of the republic on how to govern themselves, defend their freedom, and avoid corruption. The book explores ancient and modern republicanism, where we can particularly see the close relationship between his political views and those of Aristotle, as well as his critique of Christianity, which reveals his perspective on the secularization and modernity of his own time. On Livy is undoubtedly one of the most important works in the tradition of Western political thought, described by Harrington as one of the most important attempts to restore and apply essentially classical political freedom in post-medieval Europe.