Comparing Machiavelli's The Prince And Adolf Hitler
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Machiavelli’s The Prince was published in 1532. It outlined his opinions on how a prince should behave and rule. Ultimately Machiavelli believed that it was better to be feared then loved when ruling. This statement can be proven when looking at some historical rulers of the past who appeared to behave very Machiavellian. Lorenzo de Medici of Florence, Henry VIII of England, Queen Isabella of Spain and Adolf Hitler all faced difficult situations which involved difficult decisions on their part. Firstly, Lorenzo de Medici of Florence (1449-1492) ruled with his brother Giuliano until he was assassinated in 1478. The assassination was meant for both brothers but Lorenzo managed to escape and seek refuge. The citizens of his city took his side and attacked the individuals involved in the assassination, killing them. Lorenzo was well loved by his citizens and he was well known for his role in sponsoring artists like Michelangelo. There…show more content… Hitler represented many of Machiavelli’s ideals for leaders around the world. Hitler is one of the main examples of Machiavelli’s belief that it is better to be feared then loved. Hitler was willing to do anything to reach his goals, to the extent of having no morals and no mercy on individuals. However, there is one clear difference between Hitler and the other three examples of Machiavelli’s theory it is better to be feared then loved. Unlike Lorenzo de Medici, Henry VIII, and Isabella of Spain Hitler was ultimately unsuccessful in his attempt to rule. In chapter 17, is it better to be loved then feared? Machiavelli states “I say that every prince should want to be regarded as merciful and not cruel,” (pg. 35). This may be Hitler’s fault, he was successfully feared by many, which allowed him to rule very strongly. However, he was also considered truly cruel, which is why so many could join together against