7. The Role of Fortune and Virtù
Machiavelli introduced the powerful dynamic between fortuna (luck or chance) and virtù (personal skill, boldness, and intelligence) in shaping a ruler’s destiny. He believed that while fortune plays a significant role, it is a leader’s virtù—their capacity to adapt and act decisively—that ultimately determines success. As discussed in the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, this concept underscores the importance of both preparation and seizing opportunity in political life.
