Niccolo Machiavelli May Quotations

Of mankind we may say in general they are fickle, hypocritical, and greedy of gain.

Appear as you may wish to be

He who has not first laid his foundations may be able with great ability to lay them afterwards, but they will be laid with trouble to the architect and danger to the building.

For as laws are necessary that good manners may be preserved, so there is need of good manner that laws may be maintained. [It., Perche, cosi come i buoni costumi, per mantenersi, hanno bisogno delli leggi; cosi le leggi per ossevarsi, hanno bisogno de' buoni costumi.]

Men may second fortune, but they cannot thwart her.

Therefore the best fortress is to be found in the love of the people, for although you may have fortresses they will not save you if you are hated by the people.

For as laws are necessary that good manners be preserved, so there is need of good manners that law may be maintained.

Benefits should be granted little by little, so that they may be better enjoyed.

The innovator has for enemies all who have done well under the old, and lukewarm defenders in those who may do well under the new.