8 Greatest Modern-Day Machiavellian Characters

Ever wondered what Cersei Lannister would be like if her plans were anything more than a half-baked idea? The Marquise Isabelle De Merteuil of 'Dangerous Liasons' possesses a chilling talent for manipulation, control and strategy like no other, becoming everything which Cersei would desire.

Confined to a social prison virtue of the aristocratic society (of eighteenth-century France), Marquise De Merteuil quickly learned to effectively exploit her societal position - her role as a woman - to achieve what she desires.

Throughout the course of 'Dangerous Liasons', it transpires that Marquise De Merteuil's outwardly happiness, contentment and general agreeableness were abandoned at a young age, replaced with an amoral ambition to achieve and control. Although seemingly obvious, she uses her sexuality and desirability to acquire influential friends and manipulate others to do her bidding. Her sexual exploits are carefully planned in the vain of exacting revenge upon a former lover by ruining the virtue of an innocent young women to whom he is now betrothed.

Marquise De Merteuil demonstrates a  deep understanding of Machiavellian principles (not necessarily proposed by 'The Prince', but certainly implied through a history of following disciples), namely, the paradox of winning and dying. The Marquise proposes that if one fails to achieve or properly execute their designs, their life is most certainly at risk.