Niccolò Machiavelli had written Discourses on the First Decade of Titus Livy (Italian: Discosi
spora la prima deca di Tito Livio) in circa 1517. It focuses on Republicanism,
the type of government he preferred, rather than a Monarchy (as in The Prince). The work begins with the
beginning of the idea for republicanism, which dates back to Aristotle. This
continues throughout history, slowly being disregarded. However, when
Renaissance humanism brought up old ideas, the idea of a republic was once
again thriving. According to Discourses,
Republics need a leader much like that of a Monarch. As in The Prince, Machiavelli brings up events and ideas from history
forming the final product of Discourses
of Livy.
