History of Philosophy Without Any Gaps

Pico della Mirandola and Giannozzo Manetti praise humans as the centerpiece of the created world. But what about the other animals?

Pico della Mirandola argues for the harmony of the ancient authorities, draws on Jewish mysticism, and questions the value of humanist rhetoric.

Jewish philosophers in Renaissance Italy, focusing on Leone Ebreo’s Dialogues of Love, the Averroism of Elijah del Medigo, and Italian Kabbalah.

An interview with Denis Robichaud on how, and why, Plato was read in the Italian Renaissance.

Ficino describes a “Platonic” love purified of sexuality, prompting a debate carried on by Pico della Mirandola, Pietro Bembo, and Tullia d’Aragona.

Marsilio Ficino’s revival of Platonism, with a focus on his proofs for the soul’s immortality in his magnum opus, the Platonic Theology.

Discover the vibrant world of 15th century Florence as Marsilio Ficino navigates the complexities of Renaissance Platonism. Learn how the Medici family became pivotal patrons, shaping the humanist movement and fostering intellectual growth. Delve into Ficino’s achievements in translating Plato's works and his collaborations with other great thinkers like Pico della Mirandola. Explore the interplay of art, philosophy, and political intrigue, revealing a rich tapestry of ideas that influenced a transformative era.

Dive into a captivating exploration of women's virtues through history, from medieval times to the Renaissance. Discover key figures like Peter Abelard and Boccaccio, whose works shaped cultural views on women. Unpack the role of gender dynamics in literature, influenced by Aristotle and Plato. Finally, meet feminist philosophers like Isotta Nogarola and Lucrezia Marinella, who boldly challenge misogynistic perspectives, marking a transformative shift towards women's empowerment in philosophical thought.

Delve into the world of Italian women humanists like Cassandra Fedele, Isotta Nogarola, and Laura Cereta, who sought fame through their eloquence. Discover their fight for recognition in a male-dominated sphere while balancing societal expectations of marriage and family. Explore the philosophical shift from pleasure to eternity as these women engaged critically with great thinkers, challenging notions of female inferiority. Their remarkable contributions reveal a rich tapestry of intellectual ambition amidst the struggles of Renaissance society.

Explore the groundbreaking life of Christine de Pizan, a pivotal figure bridging medieval and Renaissance thought. Discover how she fiercely challenged misogyny in her influential work, 'The City of Ladies.' The podcast dives into her advocacy for peace and women's virtues during 14th-century France, shedding light on her powerful insights on leadership and the role of women in society. Christine's story is a testament to resilience and intellectual courage.