The Fox and the Lion

The ruler must learn two natures: the lion, to frighten the wolves, and the fox, to recognize the snares. Either alone is ruin.

From Niccolò Machiavelli.

In Symbols of the Psyche

• The Lion: Royal and devouring power.
• The Fox: Cunning that survives by wit.

More from Niccolò Machiavelli

Appearance and Reality · The Common Good · Fortuna · Necessità · Return to First Principles · Verità Effettuale · Virtù