The Book of the Courtier

Widely acknowledged as the sixteenth century’s most significant handbook on leadership, The Book of the Courtier offers an insider’s view of court life and culture during the Renaissance. Set in 1507, when the author himself was an attache to the Duke of Urbino, the book consists of a series of fictional conversations between members of the Duke’s retinue. All aspects of leadership come under discussion, but the primary focus rests upon the relationship between advisors and those whom they counsel. Ever-relevant subjects include the decision-making process, maintaining an ethical stance, and the best ways of interacting with authority figures. Frequently assigned in university courses on literature, history, and Renaissance studies.