Erasmus, Desiderius (1467/9–1536)

Abstract As a humanist Desiderius Erasmus was first and foremost known for his mastery of an elegant Latin style, his familiarity with classical authors and the ancient world, and his expert knowledge of the Bible and the church fathers. He was a very productive writer who published dozens of books ranging from editions, translations, and commentaries to such highly popular works as the satirical Praise of Folly and the didactic Adages . Erasmus's writings on politics are closely connected to these other works and are as well deeply rooted in the humanist tradition. Faithful to this duty as a humanist teacher and adviser, Erasmus wrote all his political works in a highly rhetorical manner shaped after classical models in order to penetrate into the hearts and minds of his audience and persuade them as effectively as possible. His sole purpose was to instill the various classical and Christian virtues into the prince's character, especially those which were considered to be of paramount importance for good governance such as liberality, clemency, and fidelity. By doing so, he wanted to form a good prince who is in every respect the opposite of a tyrant. If a society is confronted nevertheless with such a tyrant, Erasmus asked the subjects to bear him patiently, since internal order and peace had to be preserved at all costs.