June Austen

June Austen is one of the most well-known and widely-read English novelists of all times. Her other published works are Sense and Sensibility, Mansfield Park, and Emma. Austen's transformation into one of the greatest writers in English history began only after her death. Her works started attracting scholarly attention in the 1920s. Today, Austen's works have become an important part of popular culture. They are not only a part of the English curriculum in school and colleges but there are also many film and television adaptations of Emma, Mansfield Park, Pride and Prejudice, and Sense and Sensibility.

Quote

What is Mr. Darcy to me, pray, that I should be afraid of him? I am sure we owe him no such particular civility as to be obliged to say nothing he may not like to hear. For Heaven's sake, Madam, speak lower. What advantage can it be for you to offend Mr. Darcy? You will never recommend yourself to his friend by doing so!

The Prince

Niccolo Machiavelli, the author, was an Italian. (Born 3rd May 1469, died 21st June 1527). He was a diplomat, philosopher, historian, politician, and writer. He is best known for his book The Prince. His notable works are The Prince and Discourses on Livy. The Prince is basically a political treatise and a guide for new princes and royals. It was published five years after Machiavelli's death. When he was alive, there was some controversy surrounding his book. It was published only after seeking permission from the Medici and Pope Clement VII.

The Prince is one of the best works of modern political philosophy, highlighting truth rather than abstract ideas or incidents. The text has a recognizable structure, and the author indicates himself in most portions. The book mainly narrates about princedoms, especially hereditary princedoms, which are easier to rule. It avoids comparisons between monarchy and tyranny. Machiavelli's character of the story, Cyrus the Great, is portrayed as very different from those who have gained thrones without effort, as successors, or those who have acquired crowns through hard labor.

He cites Roman ways to new princes and discusses kingdoms where entry is easy but holding the kingdom is difficult, such as France. He also mentions that reforming an existing order is one of the most dangerous and difficult tasks for a prince, as subjects often resist change. It is also challenging for a prince to satisfy everyone's expectations. When a prince comes to power by destiny, it can be hard to hold onto it for long, though exceptions exist. Overly generous rulers may also face greed for more. Different types of kingdoms and princedoms require different control styles. Machiavelli's work is commendable and beneficial for rulers, making it a must-read for self-development and leadership skills.