Francesco Guicciardini fut un historien et homme d'État italien, reconnu comme un penseur politique majeur de la Renaissance italienne. Son chef-d'œuvre, L'Histoire de l'Italie, a établi un style novateur en historiographie. Il étayait méticuleusement ses arguments à l'aide de sources gouvernementales, offrant des analyses réalistes des personnes et des événements de son époque. Son travail demeure essentiel pour la compréhension de la pensée politique et de l'écriture historique de la Renaissance.
The book offers an in-depth analysis of the political landscape of Florence during Guicciardini's era. Through a dialogue format, it explores the complexities of governance, providing insights into the political dynamics and challenges of the time. This English translation makes a significant historical text accessible to a broader audience, highlighting Guicciardini's critical examination of power and politics.
Francesco Guicciardini, a sixteenth-century papal advisor and power broker, authored extensive writings during his service to the Medici. This volume presents a chronological account of his career, highlighting his philosophy of self-interest. Despite his influential position, Guicciardini's perspective often overlooked the needs of others and ultimately backfired, failing to serve his own interests effectively. The texts reveal the complexities of his character and the limitations of his worldview.
Translated by Mario Domandi, Introduction by Nicolai Rubinstein