Episode 3
Machiavelli watches the rise of the charismatic monk Savonarola. Rich and poor are drawn in by him as he calls for the most radical reforms Florence has seen for over a century.
A new interpretation on the importance of The Prince in Machiavelli's life and subsequent reputation.
His name has of course become a by-word for political machination, but this new biography by Erica Benner challenges the notions that Machiavelli was simply a satanic cynic.
She suggests that, in context, he emerges as his era's staunchest champion of liberty who refused to compromise his ideals to fit the corrupt times in which he lived. As often as he advocates extreme measures for dealing with the enemy, he actually balances this with respect for the law in sentences such as "victories are never secure without some respect, especially for justice" and "cities have never expanded either in dominion or in riches if they have not been in freedom."
So this book is an attempt to redress the balance.
Read by Toby Jones
Written by Erica Benner
Abridged by Polly Coles
Producer: Clive Brill
A Brill production for 麻豆社 Radio 4.
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Credits
| Role | Contributor |
|---|---|
| Reader | Toby Jones |
| Author | Erica Benner |
| Abridger | Polly Coles |
| Producer | Clive Brill |
Broadcasts
- Wed 29 Mar 2017 09:45麻豆社 Radio 4 FM
- Thu 30 Mar 2017 00:30麻豆社 Radio 4
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