What Does Machiavelli Argue In The Prince?

What Does Machiavelli Argue In The Prince? Machiavelli defines virtues as qualities that are praised by others, such as generosity, compassion, and piety. He argues that a prince should always try to appear virtuous, but that acting virtuously for virtue’s sake can prove detrimental to the principality. How does Machiavelli think a prince should behave?