First published in 1950, this classic translation by the late Father Leslie J. Walker has long been acknowledged as the best available English language version of this seminal work in political theory. In his introduction, Father Walker explains under what conditions Machiavelli came to formulate his theory and examines the postulates upon which Machiavelli’s new method was based. Analysing the writings concerned with virtu and the conflict between morality and political interest, the introduction remains a landmark in the literature on Machiavelli. The second volume of notes, tables and indexes complete the fullest scholarly edition in any language. Providing a chronological listing of all the events mentioned in The Discourses and many cross-references to Machiavelli’s other works, no library with an interest in renaissance studies or political theory can afford to be without these volumes.