Selections from Erasmus: Principally from his Epistles

Name: Selections from Erasmus: Principally from his Epistles
Author: Desiderius Erasmus

By Desiderius Erasmus

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Essays, Letters & Speeches History - European

About This Book

A collection of letters and short pieces by a leading northern humanist presents personal correspondence, travel reports, and reflections on learning, religion, and daily life during the early modern period. Selections trace scholarly routines, encounters at universities and courts, friendships with prominent contemporaries, and episodes from journeys abroad, with attention to classical education, the recovery of Greek and Latin texts, and the tensions between scholasticism and humanist reform. Editorial notes and a brief biographical sketch contextualize the passages, while vocabulary and place-name aids support readers of Latin originals rendered for accessibility.

About the Author

Desiderius Erasmus

Desiderius Erasmus, a Dutch Renaissance humanist and theologian, is best known for his critical and satirical works that challenged the religious and social norms of his time. Born in Rotterdam around 1466, he became a prominent figure in the intellectual movement that emphasized the importance of education and classical learning. His most famous work, "In Praise of Folly," critiques the superstitions and corrupt practices of the Church, blending humor with sharp insight. Erasmus's dialogues, such as "A Merry Dialogue Declaringe the Properties of Shrowde Shrews and Honest Wives," showcase his wit and ability to engage with complex ideas through accessible conversation. His contributions to literature and thought continue to influence modern perspectives on education, religion, and society.