The problems that taxed the minds of people during the Renaissance were much the
same as those confronting us today. In their perplexity many deep-thinking peop
le sought the advice of Marsilio Ficino, the leader of the Platonic Academy in F
lorence, and through his letters he advised them, encouraged them, and sometimes
reproved them. Ficino was utterly fearless in expressing what he knew to be tru
e. His letters cover the widest range of topics, mixing philosophy and humor, co
mpassion and advice, and offering a profound glimpse into the soul of the Renais
sance.
