The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli

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The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli
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Background on The Prince

• The Prince by Niccolo Machiavelli
• Written 1513 and Published 1532
• Considered first works of modern philosophy by
  some
• The final sections of The Prince link the book to
  a specific historical context Italys disunity.
  Machiavelli sets down his account and explanation
  of the failure of past Italian rulers and
  concludes with an impassioned plea to the future
  rulers of the nation. Machiavelli asserts the
  belief that only Lorenzo de Medici, to whom the
  book is dedicated, can restore Italys honor and
  pride.

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Assignment Analyzing Quotations

• What does it mean to analyze?
• Excerpt interpret/explain the meaning
• Essay showing reader a connection
• Why is this important?
• Comprehend complex texts/documents
• Supports your thesis/argument

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Note for Future

• Today is a simple exercise where you interpret
  quotations and explain the meaning
• Future exercises will require that you not only
  interpret the meaning, but that you also explain
  how this quotation/document supports your thesis
  (make a connection!)
• key to taking your analysis one step further

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Analyzing Prince Quotations

1. Read the quotations
2. Underline/circle/highlight/annotate
3. Analyze/Explain what each passage is saying in
   complete sentences