Discussion Post I: Desiderius Erasmus, In Praise of Folly
Introduction: Erasmus of Rotterdam (1469-1536) was a Christian scholar and philosopher. Many scholars distinguish Erasmus's humanist writings as part of the "Northern Renaissance" or Christian Humanism movement to distinguish his works from the likes of Machiavelli in Italy. As with all humanists however, he wrote in a classical ancient Latin style, imitating and discussing the past alongside commentaries on the present. In his work In Praise of Folly, Erasmus uses satire-using humor or exaggeration to ridicule or criticize a person's vice-to in fact criticize the corruptions he saw evident in the Church as an organization and the priesthood more generally. Erasmus is sometimes credited as being a pre-cursor to the Reformation.
As you read this excerpt, consider how Erasmus uses the past and satire to criticize the evils of humans, and specifically of the Church. How might this compare to Machiavelli or Petrarch? Are the three authors more similar or different? Why do you think so?
Discussion Post II: Niccolo Machiavelli, Excerpts
Introduction: Machiavelli (1469-1527) is mostly known for his treatise The Prince (1513) on the Renaissance city-state rulers of the Italian Peninsula. As an Italian diplomat and philosopher, he wrote many types of additional works, including comedies and poetry. Below are some excerpts from The Prince and another work on Republican ideals, Discourses on Livy.
As you read the excerpts, consider what elements of the past he emphasizes. Is he advocating to simply imitate the past? How does he also comment on the current political situation in his recommendations for founding a republic?
Discussion Post III: Francis Petrarch, Letter to Posterity
Introduction: Francesco Petrarca (1304-1374 CE) was an Italian poet and scholar who is credited with being one of the first Humanist writers of the Late Medieval/Renaissance. Petrarch (English spelling) travelled through Medieval libraries looking for ancient manuscripts especially of ancient Roman writers. Petrarch not only collected ancient Roman authors but imitated their writing style as well. In this letter, never finished, Petrarch writes an autobiographical obituary, hoping to emphasize the memory of his writing in future readers.
As you read the letter, consider how Petrarch relates his love of the ancient past to his current present? How does he demonstrate characteristic of Humanism-the imitation of Roman literature, the inherent evil nature of mankind and the potential of mankind?
Discussion Post IV
After completing this module's readings, complete the following:
Identify at least three characteristics of humanism, either Classical or Christian humanism, as described in the textbook, in at least one of the three primary sources that you are required to read for this module.
The response should include a reference list. One-inch margins, Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space and APA style of writing and citations.