The combination of rhetoric and philosophy appeared in the ancient world
through Cicero, and revived as an ideal in the Renaissance. By a careful
and precise analysis of the views of four major humanists-Petrarch,
Salutati, Bruni, and Valla--Professor Seigel seeks to establish that
they were first of all professional rhetoricians, completely committed
to the relation between philosophy and rhetoric. He then explores the
broader problem of the "external history" of humanism, and reopens basic
questions about Renaissance culture. He departs from the views held by
such scholars as Hans Baron and Lauro Martines and expands the
conclusions suggested by Paul Oskar Kristeller. The result is a
stimulating, controversial study that rejects some of the claims made
for the humanists and indicates achievements and limitations.
Originally published in 1968.
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