What was the role of statecraft during the Renaissance?

Question

I know of Machiavelli's philosophy in The Prince, but was this carried through in Europe during the Renaissance?

Answer 1

Most definitely.  Just studying England and France during this period reveals that their rulers would do whatever it took to achieve their nations' goals.  

Henry VII and his treatment of his daughter-in-law.

Henry VIII and his dealings with other nations.  Cardinal Wolsey was an astute student of Machiavelli.

Elizabeth, as well, was quite astute at playing the game to her advantage.  Just research a little about Walsingham to see how she used whatever means necessary to achieve an end.

The Valois family, my goodness, they practically wrote the book on double dealing.

Answer 2

I agree. Look no further than Elizabeth I, Machiavelli, and Thomas Wolsey!