Policraticus, by John, Bishop of Salisbury, and The Prince, by Niccoló Machiavelli

Policraticus, by John, Bishop of Salisbury, and The Prince, by Niccoló Machiavelli, show distinguishable differences in thinking between the Middle Ages and the period of Renaissance. The two books were written in different eras, and they both talk about the true meaning of “prince” as a ruler and how he should conduct himself in order to maintain his power. The most significant differences between the two writers result from their differing views regarding religion, political …

…to make his people satisfied as long as possible. Machiavelli teaches the prince how to be prudent and sometimes evil in order to survive according to the situation. It is almost impossible to determine what is good or evil, but it is clear that the people’s ideas had changed from theoretical to more realistic. At this point it is clear that, as times changed, the people became more interested in individualism more than groups.