"A return to first principles in a republic is sometimes caused by the simple virtues of one man. His good example has such an influence that the good men strive to imitate him, and the wicked are ashamed to lead a life so contrary to his example."

Life

Create & Download Quote Image

Select Template

Insight & Reflection

This reflection on life by Niccolo Machiavelli resonates across generations. It highlights a fundamental truth about human nature: our continuous search for meaning in life is what ultimately defines our character and our path forward.

About Niccolo Machiavelli

Niccolò di Bernardo dei Machiavelli was a Florentine diplomat, author, philosopher, and historian who lived during the Italian Renaissance. He is best known for his political treatise The Prince, written around 1513 but not published until 1532, five years after his death. He has often been called the father of modern political philosophy and political science.

More quotes by Niccolo Machiavelli  ’
Editorial Note: This quote is curated and fact-checked by the Quotes Archive Editorial Team. Verified Literature Specialist.

More by Niccolo Machiavelli

"The main foundations of every state, new states as well as ancient or composite ones, are good laws and good arms you cannot have good laws without good arms, and where there are good arms, good laws inevitably follow."

Read more  ’

More about Life

"It is a radiant truth that the richness of existence is found in simple harmonies, not superfluous splendors — an essential principle for the reflective life."

Read more  ’

"It is a enduring truth that beauty in art is the harmony of spirit, intellect, and craft — an essential principle for the reflective life."

Read more  ’
View all Life quotes  ’