Consistent Inconsistency: Machiavelli and His Use of Roman Sources

Abstract

Niccolò Machiavelli, a key Renaissance political thinker, adapts Roman historical sources to convey his views on effective leadership. This paper examines how Machiavelli reinterprets figures like Scipio Africanus and Severus to emphasize the necessity of astute cruelty and strategic governance. Machiavelli portrays Scipio’s generosity as a flaw and celebrates Severus for his pragmatic use of cruelty. He selectively adapts sources from Livy, Herodian, and Dio to support his arguments, while also integrating his belief in republicanism. This pattern of selective reinterpretation highlights Machiavelli’s distinctive approach to political strategy and leadership.