Machiavelli reloaded: Perceptions and misperceptions of the ‘Prince of realism’

This article analyses the impact and legacy of Niccolo Machiavelli’s thought in International Relations. It explores the various and contrasting interpretations that have characterized the ‘Machiavellian Moment’ in political theory and international studies, revisiting some of its fundamental concepts – such as fortuna, virtu, cose di stato – and highlighting their strong heuristic and analytical potential for International Relations. The article also serves as an Introduction to the various sections and contributions of the Special Issue.