Discover the true origins of what it means to be 'Machiavellian' through the absorbing treatise The Prince. One of the first and foremost works on political philosophy, Machiavelli leaves morals and ideals behind and cuts right to the heart of what it means to take and hold on to power. Heavily immersed in the ruthless and cunning world of the Medicis and the Borgias, he was well-placed to observe human nature and the practicalities of rule. A must-read both for its historical interest and its relevance for the politicians, lawmakers and hapless members of the public of today.