Romulus#
Summary#
Romulus is cited alongside Moses, Cyrus, and Theseus as one of the most excellent examples of princes who acquired their principalities through personal ability rather than fortune. Machiavelli emphasizes that Romulus’s abandonment at birth and exile from Alba were necessary conditions that gave him the opportunity to become King of Rome and founder of the fatherland. His success demonstrates that great leaders require both exceptional ability and the right opportunity to achieve lasting power.