The Mandrake

Style and Technique

«The Mandrake» by Niccolò Machiavelli is written in the genre of comedy, which defines its style and technique. The language of the work is rich with satire and irony, allowing the author to critique the social and moral norms of his time. Literary devices include the use of dialogues that reveal the characters' personalities and advance the plot. The story structure is classic for a comedy: exposition, rising action, climax, and resolution. An important element is the use of masks and stock characters typical of Italian commedia dell'arte, which gives the work a unique dynamism and liveliness. Machiavelli also employs allusions and symbolism to emphasize themes of deception, cunning, and human weakness.