Machiavelli

Unmasking the Man Behind the Myth: A Gripping Biography of Niccolò Machiavelli

'A wonderfully assured and utterly riveting biography that captures not only the much-maligned Machiavelli, but also the spirit of his time and place. A monumental achievement.' – Jessie Childs, author of God's Traitors.

Notorious and often misunderstood, Niccolò Machiavelli's legacy has been shaped by his most famous work, The Prince. But was the man truly as sinister as his reputation suggests? Alexander Lee delves deep into Machiavelli's life, from his impoverished childhood and early abuse to his political triumphs and ultimate fall from grace. Through extensive research, Lee reveals surprising connections between Machiavelli's personal experiences and his influential philosophical works.

Set against the backdrop of Renaissance Italy, this definitive biography transports readers into the turbulent world Machiavelli navigated, from the opulent halls of Florence to the Borgia pope's court and the dungeons of the Stinche prison. Lee's engaging portrait unveils the man behind the myth, offering an intimate look at Machiavelli's marriages, affairs, and the enduring impact of his ideas.

Both a captivating character study and a vivid snapshot of a pivotal era, Machiavelli provides an unparalleled exploration of one of history's most intriguing figures, shedding new light on his life, his works, and the world that shaped him.