For without invention, no one was ever a great man in his own trade.

Necessities can be many, but the one that is stronger is that which constrains you to win or to die.

And above all you ought to guard against leading an army to fight which is afraid or which is not confident of victory. For the greatest sign of an impending loss is when one does not believe one can win.

It is much safer for the prince to be feared than loved, but he ought to avoid making himself hated.

He who wishes to be obeyed must know how to command.

I hold it to be a proof of great prudence for men to abstain from threats and insulting words toward anyone, for neither diminishes the strength of the enemy.

Men are more ready to offend one who desires to be beloved than one who wishes to be feared.