The Rest Is History 574. The Medici: Curse of the Mad Monk (Part 3)
241 snips
Jun 15, 2025 Discover the dichotomy of Lorenzo de' Medici's reign—was it an era of prosperity or tyranny? Dive into the fiery sermons of Girolamo Savonarola, who predicted doom for the Medici family while decrying corruption. Explore how Lorenzo's financial mismanagement shadowed Florence's cultural glory. Learn about the influences that shaped artists like Botticelli amid widespread poverty and unrest. Unpack the tumultuous politics that led to Lorenzo’s decline and Savonarola’s ascendance, revealing a rich tapestry of Renaissance intrigue.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Lorenzo's Hidden Autocracy
- Lorenzo de' Medici disguised his autocratic power under a pretense of constitutionalism. - He controlled all appointments and vetoed legislation via the new Council of Seventy.
Hermit's Torture Allegedly Ordered
- When accused of assassination plotting, a hermit was tortured to death by walking over coarse salt. - It remains unclear if he was guilty or this was just brutal retribution.
Medici Rise Through Papal Alliances
- Lorenzo enhanced Medici prestige by marrying into papal families and securing cardinalships for his kin. - These moves elevated Florence to equal standing with Italian princes and popes.