p With a mix of both respectable and immoral advice, i The Prince i is a frank analysis on political power. Separated into four sections, i The Prince i is both a guide to obtain power and an explanation on the aspects that affect it. The first section discusses the types of principalities. According to Machiavelli, there are four different types--hereditary, mixed, new and ecclesiastical. While defining each type, Machiavelli also discusses the implications of each. Next, i The Prince i identifies types of armies. There are hired armies, which Machiavelli himself expressed distrust of, loaned troops also known as auxiliaries, native, or a mix of the three. With intriguing contrasts, the next section reveals the most effective behavior and characteristics for a ruler. While it is advised to be stingy over generous, cruel over merciful, and champions dishonesty over inconvenience, i The Prince i also stresses the importance of being a well-like ruler with an enhanced reputation, creatin