Letter from Francesco Petrach to Cicero
WHO
The letter was written by Francesco Petrach a popular Renaissance humanist and book hunter who searched who went in search of papal archives and far monasteries for surviving pieces of ancient writing. The writing was intended for past philosophers like Cicero who passed away long time ago (Petrach, 225). It decries today’s society for their lack of giving credence to philosophical writings and turning to making money among other things.
WHAT
The letter from Francesco Petrach to Cicero is a memoir. This is since it takes us through the life history and works of the philosopher, Cicero. The article is based on the life times of Cicero and books written by him which were philosophical and offered criticism to other scholars. Through this letter, Francesco critics the life of Cicero. Additionally, the author of the letter tells for of the state his books are today.
The memoir relives the times of Cicero when books were valued. A time when life was quiet and lacked civil wars. The memoirs of the past are placed in direct comparison with the present day. A time when books are disregarded and money is highly valued.
WHEN
The letter was written in the 1300s. A time that was not quiet and was faced by civil wars, and experienced liberty. A time when Cicero was popular but it was too feeble to read writings that were once cherished. In the current period, most of the philosophers who knew Cicero are long gone while some are really old. The day sees a time when the generation fail to make use of their talents and are focused on making money.
WHERE
The letter was written in Italy, a country that was popular in terms of politicians and philosophers who graced people’s ears with skillful teachings using their books. A country that was plagued by civil wars that were keen in attaining liberty. However, through change Italy has grown to disregard books and its talents and turn to other means that are focused in getting money.
WHY SIGNIFICIANT
The source is quite significant in varied ways. The source was a written at a time and place that had many philosophers who passed their messages and criticisms through literary articles. Additionally, the philosophers imparted their skills to its readers and the population at large (Petrach, 36). The period was quiet and had not experienced wars, generally it was a stable setting with value accorded to literary sources and philosophers.
However, the modern time period offers a contrast in several areas in comparison to early 1300s. The today’s population shares the same value for the philosophers but gradually facing extinction. The modern is faced with civil wars and lack of peace. This has led to most people to lack time and commitment to the readings of famous philosophers. They dedicate their time, talent and effort to making money and attaining power (Petrach, 238). This has been note to have impending danger to future lives as the philosophers and their writings would be completely disregarded and forgotten.
The author tries to remind us of the popular points in time that philosophers and their works were valued and imparted varied skills in those who read them. Education, skills and communication were passed through writings. This has however faded and they have faced a decline in their use and recognition. With this progress, the future life appears dark and bleak for the generation.
Work Cited
Petrach, F. Letters. New York: G.P Putnam’s Sons, 1909, p. 225-39. Print.
