"The Prince" by Niccolo Machiavelli vs. "Book of the Courtier" by Baldassare Castiglione.

The Prince vs. Book of the Courtier

When you read The Prince and The Book of the Courtier, you notice they are both how-to guides for Princes, royalty in general, and nobility. However, there are some very distinct differences in the philosophy of Niccolo Machiavelli and Baldassare Castiglione. Castiglione advices his readers to practice all things with nonchalance, and things will fall in their place. He also put high importance on knowledge, gracefulness, and appearance. Machiavelli agrees with Castiglione on some issues, but on others, they strongly differ.

Knowledge of arms and military is necessary for any Courtier or Prince. The Book of the Courtier advices military might be exercised with vigor often to win a favorable reputation. The prince will only be secure when he can raise his own army to defend against all comers. Machiavelli advises that a Prince should study war, read history, and know his land.

Famous posthumous portrait of Niccolò Machiavelli...

English: Tomb of Niccolò Machiavelli in the Basil...

Niccolo Machiavelli 1

The public appearance of a Prince in the community was different in The Prince as it was in The Book of the Courtier. Castiglione wished a Courtier to be pleasing at first sight, and loveable to all who see him. Opposing that view, Machiavelli thought a Prince needed to destroy all resistance, using cruelty to be secure. The Prince cautions a Prince must also appear to be good, but know how to be evil. The following excerpt from The Prince contrasts the result of taking Machiavelli's advice, "You can gain an empire by slaying citizens, deceiving friends, and being cruel, but you cannot obtain glory in that manner."

Going about securing an empire once obtained is also told differently by the two authors. Castiglione's advice is mostly about the importance of reputation and favor by the people. His suggestion is to gain favor by remaining humble. Being...