~1100

Events

• Robert, King of Sicily, told Francis Petrarch under oath that letters (especially sacred ones) were far dearer to him than his kingdom (the "250 years ago" is reckoned from Petrarch's time; Robert reigned 1309-1343)

Preface and Praise of Sacred Scripture

• IV. The Old Testament Surpasses the New in Allegorical Richness — Robert of Sicily's love of sacred letters

  "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"