"The Prince" by Niccolo Machiavelli vs. "Book of the Courtier" by Baldassare Castiglione.

The Prince vs. Book of the Courtier When you read The Prince and The Book of the Courtier, you notice they are both how-to guides for Princes, royalty in general, and nobility. However, there are some very distinct differences in the philosophy of Niccolo Machiavelli and Baldassare Castiglione. Castiglione advices his readers to practice all things with nonchalance, and things will fall in their place. He also put high importance on knowledge, gracefulness, and appearance. …

…servants, and keep them under control if following Machiavelli. Both authors have two almost totally opposite theories of how to obtain and secure a position of royalty. Machiavelli's ideas are more cruel, violent, and suppressive in nature. Castiglione is almost completely opposite in his theories of a mostly peaceful rule. A Prince/noble himself must select what route he wishes to take by personal preference in deciding what kind of Prince/noble he will become.