Digital Logos Edition
One of the most important figures of the 16th century, Desiderius Erasmus was a leading reformist and Renaissance humanist. Through his works and letters, Erasmus championed that true religion was a matter of inward devotion rather than outward symbols of ceremony and ritual, and sought to reform aspects of the Church from within. His works showed an astonishing intelligence, razor-sharp wit, and an authentic love for God and humanity. Soon after publication, his works were translated and read all over Europe.
This collection of wise sayings and noble deeds from emperors, kings, captains, philosophers, and orators was originally published by Erasmus in 1542, and translated to English in 1564 by Nicolas Udall. Includes anecdotes and Erasmus' commentary on Socrates, Aristippus, Diogenes, Alexander the Great, Augustus Caesar, and more.
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Perhaps no man wielded a greater influence in the sixteenth century than Erasmus. Both in his relation to Protestantism and Romanism, Erasmus was an epoch-making personality. The modern age cannot be understood without a study of his writings and the tracing of his influence.
—The Reformed Church Review
To read Erasmus is to grow in wisdom.
—Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society
Desiderius Erasmus (1466–1536) was a priest, scholar, author, and translator known as a leading figure in the Renaissance humanist movement before and during the Reformation. In 1506 he graduated as Doctor of Divinity from Turin University, and later was Lady Margaret's Professor of Divinity at the University of Cambridge. He then taught at Queens College, Cambridge for five years before becoming an independent scholar. Erasmus' works were very influential; his books were produced in many editions and translations and printed all through Europe during his lifetime.
Nicolas Udall (1504–1556) was a playwright, cleric, schoolmaster, translator, and author of Ralph Roister Doister.