Presents a new, critical introduction to Machiavelli's thought for students of politics and philosophy. All students of Western political thought encounter Niccolo Machiavelli's work. Nevertheless, his writing continues to puzzle scholars and readers who are uncertain how to deal with the seeming paradoxes they encounter. The Political Philosophy of Niccolo Machiavelli is a clear account of Machiavelli's thought, major theories and central ideas. It critically engages with his work in a new way, one not based on the problematic Cambridge school approach. Geared towards the specific requirements of students who need to reach a sound understanding of Machiavelli's ideas, it is the ideal companion to the study of this influential and challenging philosopher. Introduces Machiavelli's life and the historical and theoretical context within which he developed his ideas; detailed examinations Machiavelli's most commonly encountered texts, including The Prince, The Discourses, The Florentine Histories and The Art of War; critically analyses Machiavelli's most important concepts and shows how they continue to reverberate within Western political philosophy and pays particular attention to Machiavelli's language and central themes such as Virtue, Fortune, Conflict, History and Religion.