For this assignment please use chapter 18 of Machiavelli, Niccolo, “The Prince” , to critically explicate in 4-6 pages. You are to clarify the significance of the passage in question both in terms of what it says, and in terms of how this passage fits into the broader context of the text as a whole. To do this effectively be sure to discuss how we have arrived at the passage in question, and what the general philosophical project is for the author. Summary will, of course, be necessary for this, but it is by no means sufficient. That is, you cannot simply summarize the given passage. Rather, you must also critically explain its philosophical significance, and demonstrate your understanding of the arguments that are made. Moreover, you should write as if your reader has no understanding whatsoever of the text in question. Do not assume that anything is self-evident in the text. When you use quotes (and you most certainly need to use quotes throughout the entire paper!), you must explain their significance immediately thereafter.
The criteria by which you will be evaluated include:
- Exposition of the context in which this chapter occurs
- Providing a clear account of the philosophical significance of the passage
o What is the author saying?
o Why does this passage matter?
o What is the overall philosophical project of this text as a whole? Of the section in question? How does the section relate to the whole?
- Demonstrating the logic employed by the author
o What are the main premises of the argument?
o How does the conclusion logically follow from these premises?
- Demonstrating a grasp of the key philosophical concepts we have discussed thus far as they are used in the text (for example: fortune, foresight, force, independence, general will, etc.)
- Writing in a manner that can clearly be understood
Formatting:
– 12 pt. Times New Roman font
– Double-spaced, standard page margins
– MLA