Virtue, Power, and Governance

NOTE: This is not the final version of the bound book! This versin is available for our HH users in this form for the 2026-2027 school year. 

By bringing together The City of God by Augustine, The Education of a Christian Prince by Erasmus, and The Prince by Machiavelli, this collection offers readers the opportunity to explore three distinct perspectives on political power. The works of Augustine, Erasmus, and Machiavelli challenge readers to reflect on the purpose of government and the balance between ethical governance and effective rule. Grappling with fundamental questions on morality and the timeless tension between secular authority, religious values, and moral virtues, these three philosophers present the opportunity for a rich dialogue on the nature of rule and the human condition. In this compilation readers will find selected books, chapters, and excerpts from The City of God  and The Education of a Christian Prince and the complete text of The Prince.