Institutes of Oratory

...of almost everyone, it could not be conquered by human strength. Yet you conquered this city within five months. You did this even while the leader of the enemies, along with a massive army, tried in vain to bring help to the besieged. While each of these feats is great on its own, they provoke even greater admiration because you accomplished everything I have mentioned within a single passing year.

The honor of such a great name is not limited by the boundaries of military glory. We see this in some nations that are content with the praises of war but look down on literature and studies. You, however, have always thought it most beautiful to excel not only in arms but also in learning. Indeed, it would have been very painful for you if that mystical Pallas Pallas Athena was the Greek goddess of both wisdom and defensive war. Vossius uses her here to symbolize the balance of military and intellectual power. of the nations seemed to have preferred any other land over your Holland. original: "Bataviam". The Batavians were an ancient people of the Rhine delta. Humanists used this name to refer to the Dutch people in a classical, elevated style.

Thus, it is no surprise that since you won your liberty, you can count so many citizens who held the highest offices in the Republic Referring to the Dutch Republic, also known as the United Provinces. but were nonetheless famous for the monuments of their intellect and learning. Perhaps a more suitable time will come to discuss those famous men of learning who have led or currently lead the state. Regarding the Academy original: "Academia". This likely refers to the University of Leiden, founded as a reward for the city's endurance during the Spanish siege, or the Athenaeum Illustre in Amsterdam where Vossius taught. which affects me more directly, I will say this one thing, even if...