Second edition of the first Latin translation (1519) of Graecarum affectionum curatio, Theodorets (393-457) celebrated apologetic work composed against the last defenders of Hellenism. Intended as a vigorous piece of Christian propaganda, the treatise seeks to demonstrate the truth of the Gospel from within the philosophical tradition of the Greeks and other ancient peoples. Remarkably, the original Greek text did not appear in print until 1592, making Zenobio Acciaiuolis (1415-1478) Latin version the principal vehicle through which Western scholars encountered the work for much of the 16th century.
Zenobio Acciaiuoli was a distinguished Florentine Humanist of the famed Acciaiuoli family. In 1518 he was appointed Prefect of the Vatican Library by Pope Leo X, to whom this translation is dedicated. His rendering and adaptation of Theodorets treatise played a crucial role in reintroducing Greek patristic literature to Renaissance Europe, particularly to readers without knowledge of the Greek language.
The work itself is divided into twelve books. In these, Theodoret defends the truth of the Christian message, subjects Greek religion, mythology, and philosophy to a critical examination, and demonstrates that several Greek philosophers approached, albeit imperfectly, the insights later revealed fully by Christianity. He further exposes the irrational and morally troubling nature of pagan cults and practices. Graecarum affectionum curatio ranks among the most influential early Christian polemical and apologetic texts, a bridge between Classical thought and Christian doctrine.
With 2 bookplates mounted on the first endpaper, the first ("Ex Bibliotheca D. Joannis Maineau, Canonici, Cathedralis Ecclesiae Rectoris"), the second ("J.L. Beijers wed 5-7 / Utrecht New and Old Books"). The work is slightly browned throughout. Otherwise in very good condition. Nijhoff & Kronenberg 2001; Swedish Booty of Books, SJ 1025; STCV 12927789 (2 copies); USTC 404030; WorldCat 1154432502 (8 copies).