The School of Economic Science and Philosophy has had the privilege of translating the letters of Marsilio Ficino into English. Thus far, 9 volumes have been completed.
Marsilio Ficino (1433 – 1499) made a vital contribution to the change in European society that took place in the Renaissance. Men of influence throughout Europe drew inspiration from him and his Academy. Ficino translated all Plato’s dialogues from Greek into Latin, together with the works of Hermes Trismegistus, Plotinus, and other leading figures in the Platonic tradition. He then proceeded to interpret all these in the light of Christian teaching, and to revive a spiritual tradition at a time of social and economic turmoil
The problems which taxed the minds of men during the Italian Renaissance were much the same as those confronting mankind today. New political and social forces were disrupting much of Europe and chaos threatened to engulf society.
In their concern and perplexity many deep-thinking men sought the advice of Marsilio Ficino and it was through his Letters that he advised them, encouraged them and occasionally reproved them. He was utterly fearless in expressing what he knew to be true, and the wisdom contained in his writings has influenced many of the finest Western minds from his own time to the present day.
Profound, compassionate and always relevant, his Letters – originally addressed to his contemporaries in 15th century Italy – speak powerfully and clearly to modern man.