Machiavellis New Modes & Orders" is the only full-length interpretive study on Machiavellis controversial & ambiguous work " Discourses on Livy." These discourses considered by some to be Machiavellis most important work are thoroughly explained in a chapter-by-chapter commentary by Harvey C. Mansfield one of the worlds foremost interpreters of this remarkable philosopher. Mansfields aim is to discern Machiavellis intention in writing the book: he argues that Machiavelli wanted to introduce new modes & orders in political philosophy in order to make himself the founder of modern politics. Mansfield maintains that Machiavelli deliberately concealed part of his intentions so that only the most perceptive reader could see beneath the surface of the text & understand the whole of his book. Previously out of print Mansfields penetrating study brings to light the hidden thoughts lurking in the details of the " Discourses on Livy" to inform & challenge its readers at every step along the way."