Giovanni Villani

Giovanni Villani (c. 1276 or 1280 – 1348) was an Italian banker, official, diplomat and chronicler from Florence who wrote the Nuova Cronica (New Chronicles) on the history of Florence. Quotes Nuova Cronica J. C. L. de Sismondi, ed., Histoire des républiques italiennes du Moyen Âge, vol. iii, p. 329 Frederick was a man of great worth and rare talents. His wisdom was derived as much from study as from natural prudence. Versed in all things, he spoke Latin, our vulgar tongue, (Italian,) German, French, Greek, and Arabic. Abounding in virtues, he was generous, and to his natural gifts he joined courtesy; a valiant and wise warrior, he was also much feared. But he was dissolute in search of pleasure; kept numerous concubines, after the fashion of the Saracens; like them, was served by Mamelukes; he gave himself up to all sensual pleasures, and led an Epicurean life, disbelieving in an hereafter. ... And this was his chief reason for turning the enemy of Holy Church. Bk. vi, ch. 1; reported in Jules Michelet, History of France, tr. G. H. Smith (New York, 1882), vol. i, p. 306 This Charles was wise and prudent in council, valiant in arms, severe, and much feared by all kings in the world, magnanimous, and of high thoughts, which rendered him equal to the greatest enterprises; inflexible in adversity, firm and faithful to all his promises, speaking little, doing much, scarcely ever laughing, strict as a priest, a zealous Catholic, and severe administrator of justice, fierce of look. He was tall and sinewy, of olive complexion, and big-nosed. He appeared more born to become the kingly dignity than any other lord. He hardly slept at all. He was lavishly bountiful to his knights; but greedy to acquire, wherever it might be, lands, seigniories, and money to supply his enterprises. Never did he take pleasure in mummers, troubadours, or courtiers. Bk. vii, ch. 1; reported in Michelet, History of France (1882), vol. i, p. 305 See also War of the Sicilian Vespers External links Category:1270s births Category:1348 deaths Category:Historians from Italy Category:People from Florence Category:Chroniclers Category:Businesspeople from Italy