Anecdote about King Robert of Sicily
Petrarch's account of Robert, King of Sicily, declaring that letters are dearer to him than his kingdom.
Preface and Praise of Sacred Scripture
-
IV. The Old Testament Surpasses the New in Allegorical Richness
— Petrarch cited: Robert of Sicily swore letters dearer than his kingdom
"Francis Petrarch relates that 250 years ago, Robert, King of Sicily, was so delighted with letters, especially sacred ones, that he said to him under oath: "I swear to you, Petrarch, that letters are far dearer to me than my kingdom, and if I had to be deprived of one or the other, I would more calmly part with the crown than with letters.""