Francesco Guicciardini fue un historiador y estadista italiano, reconocido como un pensador político fundamental del Renacimiento italiano. Su obra maestra, La Historia de Italia, estableció un estilo pionero en la historiografía. Apoyó meticulosamente sus argumentos con fuentes gubernamentales, ofreciendo análisis realistas de las personas y los eventos de su época. Su trabajo sigue siendo esencial para comprender el pensamiento político y la escritura histórica del Renacimiento.
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