Why was Machiavelli a Renaissance Man?

Niccolo Machiavelli (1469-1527) is considered a "Renaissance Man" due in no small part to the fact that lived during the Renaissance era of European history, a period that spanned the 14th through 17th centuries, and that produced some of the greatest art and academic achievements in human history. 

The phrase "Renaissance Man" generally d an individual, usually male, who excelled in multiple endeavors and/or fields. Perhaps the most compelling figure of the era to be...

Niccolo Machiavelli (1469-1527) is considered a "Renaissance Man" due in no small part to the fact that lived during the Renaissance era of European history, a period that spanned the 14th through 17th centuries, and that produced some of the greatest art and academic achievements in human history. 

The phrase "Renaissance Man" generally d an individual, usually male, who excelled in multiple endeavors and/or fields. Perhaps the most compelling figure of the era to be given that moniker was Leonardo da Vinci, whose scientific observations and artistic accomplishments remain among the most compelling and enduring in history. Machiavelli, while not an artist, a category most often associated with "Renaissance Men," deserves consideration in this discussion by virtue of his personal history of military and diplomatic service to the ruling elite of Florence while also producing works of political theory that remain widely studied today. From his perch atop Florentine governing institutions, Machiavelli observed and was influenced by the brutal policies of the Borgias, including the reigning pontiff of the time, Alexander VI, and, as importantly, the Medici, who conquered Florence and imprisoned Machiavelli for a period of time.

Machiavelli's most enduring works include The Prince and Discourses, which collectively provide a sort of blueprint for retaining political power over great expanses of territory. Even his name, Machiavelli, became a part of the world's lexicon, with politicians and others known for shrewd, calculating practices intended to influence surroundings somewhat derisively referred to as "Machiavellian." Machiavelli, however, was simply, and thoughtfully, reflecting the prevailing political practices of his time. He was interested in what precisely was required to succeed in politics, and the political atmosphere in Florence during his lifetime left little room for more liberal interpretations. 

Does all of this constitute sufficient accomplishment to warrant the label "Renaissance Man?" The answer is somewhat subjective, but Machiavelli's enduring influence on political thought, born of an inarguably fascinating personal history, deserves to be considered alongside the contributions of other prominent figures of his era.