"In The Essential Writings of Machiavelli, Peter Constantine has assembled a comprehensive collection that shows the truth depth and breadth of a great Renaissance thinker. These new translations are faithful to Machiavelli's original writings." "The volume features essays that appear in English for the first time, such as "A Caution to the Medici" and "The Persecution of Africa." Also included are complete versions of the political treatise The Prince, the comic satire The Mandrake, The Life of Castruccio Castracani, and the classic story "Belfagor," along with selections from The Discourses, The Art of War, and Florentine Histories. Augmented with useful features - vital and concise annotations and cross-references - this unique compendium is certain to become the standard one-volume reference to this influential writer."--Jacket.