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Machiavelli

A Biography
by Miles J. Unger
Machiavelli: A Biography. S. & S. 2011. c.384p. illus. maps. bibliog. index. ISBN 9781416556282. $28. BIOG
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Unger's (Magnifico: The Brilliant Life and Violent Times of Lorenzo de' Medici) portrait of the world's most notorious political philosopher strives to be a definitive biography. Like Maurizio Viroli (Niccolò's Smile), Unger utilizes Machiavelli's correspondence to present a complex portrait, showing his subject in the varied public roles he played: civil servant, diplomat, political philosopher, and playwright. All of Machiavelli's writings are discussed and analyzed here. An astonishing number of people thread their way in and out of the narrative; Unger considerately offers a "Select Cast of Characters," although he regrettably fails to include a time line of key events.
VERDICT Unger succeeds in presenting Machiavelli as a true Renaissance man. Both he and Viroli ponder Machiavelli's inner life, although Unger pays greater attention to The Prince. Those who have Viroli's book may consider Unger's an optional addition. It will appeal to readers of biography, history, and political science. [See Prepub Alert, 12/20/10.]
Reviewed by Sharon E. Reidt, Marlboro Coll. Lib., VT , Aug 01, 2011
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