Who has read Balthazar De Castiglioni"s book The courtesan?

Question

I think it is funny and I hope that an inteligent film director would do a movie of it some day.

Answer 1

This book is a classic example of what Sir Philip Sidney (roughly the same period) says about literature. Sidney argues that literature must teach and entertain, and at the same time move to virtuous action. Sidney contends that literature is superior to philosophy and history. Philosophy presents an abstract ideal, but provides no concrete examples. History has plenty of examples, but it is presented in a dull and boring manner -- all facts and dates.

Philosophers and Historians -- please do not take this as a statement of my opinion and send me hate mail! I am just stating my understanding of Sidney.

Castiglione uses a philosophical ideal and history to concoct fiction. The purpose of this fiction is both to teach and entertain the Courtier. After being entertained and informed, it is presumed that the Courtier will be inspired to virtuous action.

Compare to Machiavelli's The Prince, which inspires self-interest and dastardly deeds, rather than virtuous action.