"For the great majority of mankind are satisfied with appearances, as though they were realities, and are often even more influenced by the things that seem than by those that are."

"Never attempt to win by force what can be won by deception."

"Any man who tries to be good all the time is bound to come to ruin among the great number of men who are not good."

"Wise men say, and not without reason, that whoever wishes to foresee the future must consult the past; for human events ever resemble those of preceding times."

"If a prince wants to maintain his rule, he must learn how not to be virtuous, and to make use of this or not, according to need."