Chapter XX

THE RENAISSANCE AT FLORENCE.--A.D. 1400 TO 1492.

Classic revival in Italy encouraged by her princes. Robert of
Naples. Great men of the Renaissance. School of Victorino da
Feltre, and the “Casa Giojosa.” Encouragement given by the Popes
to the new learning. Depraved character of many of the classic
scholars. Filelfo and Lorenzo Valla. The Medici at Florence. Its
Greek scholars. Poggio Bracciolini. The Platonic Academy of Cosmo
de’ Medici. Marsilius Ficinus. John Picus Mirandola. The Roman
Academy. Pomponius Lætus. Politian begins to lecture at Florence.
Fascination of his style. Florence under Lorenzo de’ Medici.
Corruption of manners at this time. Savonarola. 599