Machiavelli intended to write a handbook for princes, a type of work common since the fourth century C.E., yet his work stands out as a classic treatise that has transformed our understanding of politics and political theory.  Your paper should be a minimum of three pages in length.  Select one topic: (1)  What is Machiavellis view of human nature? How does this help explain what he says about the way a prince rules?  Conclude by applying Machiavelli to a current or historical ruler and assess the value of Machiavellis work. (2) Machiavelli is concerned with a distinction between appearance and reality and seeming and being.  Write on Machiavellis view on the role of dissimulation and sincerity.  Conclude by applying Machiavelli to a current or historical ruler and assess the value of Machiavellis work. (3)  Machiavelli writes: They are sustained by the ancient principles of religion, which are so powerful and of such authority that they keep their princes in power whatever they do, however they live. These are the only princes who have states that they do not defend and subjects that they do not govern; the states, though undefended, are never taken from them, and the subjects, though ungoverned, neither protest, nor try to break away, nor could revolt if they a mind to. These, then, are the only safe and happy governments.  Would Machiavelli consider the United States today a safe and happy government?    Use The Prince as the basis for your paper.