Institutes of Oratory

and now, I offer that which is most precious to me: myself and the offspring original: "foetum". Vossius uses a biological metaphor throughout this section, comparing his book to a child he has fathered and raised. of my mind. I fathered this work as a young man, and when it had seen the light of day for three years, I brought it before the public eye, increased in body and strength. But now, after a gap of twenty years, I present it to you in such a state that it is doubtful whether it appears to be the same work or an entirely different one.

Truly, to praise this child of mine is not my place. It is especially unwise because the more I dare to promise, the more I am required to deliver. Yet if I were not at least aware of my own hard work, I would never have dared to dedicate it, partly to you, whom God has commanded to rule in His place in Holland original: "Batavia". A Latin name for the Netherlands, often used by scholars to evoke the ancient Batavi tribe., and partly to those whom you have chosen to lead the University original: "Academiæ". This refers to the University of Leiden, where Vossius was a professor. in your name.

I was greatly encouraged by my original plan: that these Institutes original: "Institutiones". Referring to the present work, "Institutiones Oratoriae". should serve as a commentary to my Partitions original: "Partitionibus". Referring to his earlier, more concise textbook, "Partitiones Oratoriae", which the government had mandated for use in schools., which were introduced into all the schools of Holland by your authority. At the same time, I hoped that by undertaking this labor, I would better fulfill the duty laid upon me seven years ago by the most noble Curators original: "Curatoribus". The board of governors for the University of Leiden, typically composed of representatives from the States of Holland and the city of Leiden. of the University. It pleased them then that I should not only treat the history of all ages, but also explain those things that lead to...