Petrarch

Also known as: Francis Petrarch, Franciscus Petrarca
Dates: 1304–1374
Role: Italian poet, scholar, father of Renaissance humanism

Italian poet and scholar, often called the father of Renaissance humanism. Relates that King Robert of Sicily swore that letters were dearer to him than his kingdom.

Works

Anecdote about King Robert of Sicily

Preface and Praise of Sacred Scripture

IV. The Old Testament Surpasses the New in Allegorical Richness — Relates that Robert King of Sicily said to him under oath: "letters are far dearer to me than my kingdom"
"Francis Petrarch relates that 250 years ago, Robert, King of Sicily"