In this article the author explores the possibility for the renewal of Italy’s political and democratic institutions under the new government of Matteo Renzi. He takes a historical approach, analysing the trajectory and performance of Italy’s political establishment since the Second World War and in particular the impact of Silvio Berlusconi’s particular brand of personality politics on public life and citizenship. The author argues that the malaise affecting the country runs deep, the challenges facing the new leadership immense, and that the gamble to reform the state and institutions of public life is a risky but necessary adventure that is necessary in order revive democracy and active citizenship.