29: The Book Hunters
I Take History With My Coffee
Get ready to step back into the heart of the Florentine Renaissance, where we unravel the fascinating tales of book hunters who reshaped the intellectual landscape of Europe. The episode takes us through the journey of renowned figures such as Niccolo Niccoli, Poggio Bracciolini, and Vespasiano de Bisticci. Discover Niccoli's unquenchable quest for ancient texts that shaped not just the minds of the Medici family but also landmark artists like Donatello and Brunelleschi. Traverse back to the compelling story of Bracciolini's relentless hunt for forgotten texts, including his most notable find, a complete manuscript of 'Der rerum natura' by Roman author Lucretius.
Despite not being a scholar himself, Cosimo de Medici's enthusiasm for intellectual pursuits and classical philosophy laid a cornerstone for the Renaissance. We delve into how the Council of Florence fueled the quest for classical texts, art, history, and philosophy. Through it all, we reveal the profound influence of Niccolo Niccoli, Poggio Bracciolini, and Vespasiano de Bisticci. Their relentless pursuit of knowledge, dedication to preserving ancient texts, and their role in disseminating these treasures to the world.
Resources:
Map of Florence from Paul Strathern's "The Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance."
Map of Florence (podpage.com)
Lives of Illustrious Men of the 15th Century by Vespasiano de Bisttici (Internet Archive)
The Swerve: How the World Became Modern by Stephen Greenblatt
The Bookseller of Florence: The Story of the Manuscripts That Illuminated the Renaissance by Ross King
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Intro Music: Hayden Symphony #39
Outro Music: Vivaldi Concerto for Mandolin and Strings in D
