Machiavelli: A Rational and Immoral Writer
             After reading the writings of Machiavelli it can be surmised that he was not a moral writer of his generation but can be more accurately viewed as a political writer. Machiavelli's family history and personal experiences were assets that he employed in his writings to further his political position.
             Machiavelli was greatly influenced by the politics of his time and the political positions of his father. His father held positions as a jurist and a minor official. Machiavelli grew beyond the ambitions of his father and gained the position as the Secretary of the Second Chancery. It was while in this position that he gained his extensive experience as a diplomat. He relied on this experience and his talent as a writer to express his political views and to gain favor with politicians of his time(Hutchins, ix-x).
             His work completed in The Prince demonstrates his views and political growth that he gained in his position as the Secretary of the Second Chancery. Much of his writings are historical perspective of the politics of that time period. Machiavelli was not just interested in the accurate reporting of the politics but also attempted to further his career as a politician.
             Machiavelli attempted to use his writings in The Prince to gain favor with Lorenzo De Medici, the ruler of Florence at that time. His attempts to gain favor failed and he was then removed from his political position. His failure to gain favor may be due to the fact that his views seem to contrast with the beliefs and morals of that time.
             He views of political power and influence for personal and political gain were stressed more so than morality. Machiavelli felt morality hindered the process of governmental power and that rulers should not need to worry about whether their acts were moral or immoral. Machiavelli encouraged the use of force in politics with beneficial ends to justify ev
             ...