Ten Colloquies by Desiderius Erasmus, one of the Renaissance's greatest scholars, offers a fascinating window into the human condition through a series of dialogues filled with wit, satire, and profound moral insights. Translated by Craig R. Thompson, with an introduction and extensive notes, this edition provides readers with a deeper understanding of Erasmus’s nuanced exploration of social and religious issues of his time. His dialogues touch on themes of education, piety, and the relationship between humanity and God, presenting timeless ideas in an accessible, engaging format.
This 1980 Bobbs-Merrill Educational Publishing edition, part of the Library of Liberal Arts series, preserves the integrity of Erasmus’s thought while offering valuable historical and philosophical context through Thompson’s expert translation and annotations.
About the Author
Desiderius Erasmus (1466–1536) was a Dutch Renaissance humanist, Catholic priest, and theologian who became one of the most influential scholars of his time. Known for his sharp wit and insightful critique of the Catholic Church, Erasmus sought to reform society and religion through education, rationality, and faith. His works laid the foundation for much of modern humanism and influenced subsequent thinkers like Martin Luther and John Calvin.
Craig R. Thompson is a scholar and translator known for his work on classical and Renaissance texts. His translation of Erasmus's Ten Colloquies is widely praised for its clarity and accessibility, bringing the rich moral and philosophical discussions of Erasmus to a wider modern audience. Thompson’s introduction and extensive notes offer valuable insight into Erasmus's life, context, and impact, making this edition an essential resource for readers interested in Renaissance thought.
