Niccolo Machiavelli

A prince never lacks legitimate reasons to break his promise.

Niccolo Machiavelli

A son can bear with equanimity the loss of his father, but the loss of his inheritance may drive him to despair.

Niccolo Machiavelli

A wise man ought always to follow the paths beaten by great men, and to imitate those who have been supreme, so that if his ability does not equal theirs, at least it will savour of it.

Niccolo Machiavelli

Because fear and love can hardly co exist together, if we must chose between them, it is far safer to be feared than loved.

Niccolo Machiavelli

Benefits should be conferred gradually; and in that way they will taste better.

Niccolo Machiavelli

Few men are brave by nature, but good discipline and experience make many so.

Niccolo Machiavelli

Forgiveness proceeds from a generous soul.

Niccolo Machiavelli

God creates men, but they choose each other.

Niccolo Machiavelli

Good order makes men bold; confusion makes them cowardly.

Niccolo Machiavelli

Great ambition is the passion of a great character. Those endowed with it may perform very good or very bad acts. All depends on the principles which direct them.

Niccolo Machiavelli