CASTIGLIONE, Baltasar

El cortesano.

Enueres Martín Nucio, 1544.

Fifth Spanish Edition .

Have you read Castiglione’s Cortegiano? The beauty of the book is such that it deserves to be read in all ages; and as long as courts endure, as long as princes reign and knights and ladies meet, as long valor and courtesy hold a place in our hearts, the name of Castiglione will be held in honor.” Torquato Tasso Il Malpiglio overo de la corte (1585)

An essential work to understand the Renaissance ideals of the 16th century.

First printed in 1528 and written between 1513 and 1518. It is divided into four books where, through the dialogue between the characters, various questions are raised and debated, fundamentally related to the qualities that should adorn those who live in the courts characteristic of the Renaissance and their relations with the Prince. This is a book with didactic purposes, which aims to provide the basic tools to all those who want to become good courtiers and, above all, good persons.

The book first deals with the attitudes that the perfect courtier must have, delving into his physical and intellectual qualities.

In the second book Castiglione questions the popular belief that all times past were better, highlighting the shortcomings of the ancient courts and extolling the court of Urbino.

The third book deals with the condition of women, emphasizing their virtues and goodness.

And the last one refers to the relations between the courtier and the Prince, and enters into the concept of Love, with which the work is closed.

A magnificent translation into Spanish by Juan Boscán that shows characters educated in tolerance and acceptance, a virtue that, five centuries after its writing, seems to remain among the outstanding subjects of modern society.

El Cortesano was a work of great influence in 16th century Spain and Europe. It frequently uses the dyalogues, in the manner of Plato and Cicero.

Castiglione (Mantua 1478- Toledo 1529), of high birth, served Francisco Gonzaza and the Duke of Urbino. He was the nuncio to Spain of Pope Clement VII, to the Holy Roman Emperor Carlos V.

Octavo (160×110 mm)  Contemporary vellum (renewed endpapers). 239 ff., 1 blank. Gothic types.

Translated by Boscán. Best Spanish edition. Text printed in Gothic script. Some underlined pages.  Excellent copy in fine condition, somewhat browned. Palau 47959; Salva 1728; Heredia 398; Graesse II pp. 66.