Institutes of Oratory

...did not pertain to the art of speaking. They saw how it would come to pass that, because history is the source of all universal wisdom, while Rhetoric original: "Rhetorice". The formal study of effective or persuasive speaking and writing. prepares the path to eloquence, the youth might also, through our labor, be led to that marriage of Pallas and Mercury original: "Palladis, & Mercurii". Pallas Athena represents wisdom, and Mercury represents eloquence. Their union signifies the ideal state where a person is both wise and well-spoken., which antiquity called Hermathena original: "Hermathenam". A composite figure or statue combining the attributes of Hermes and Athena, used by scholars like Cicero to symbolize the union of learning and eloquence.. Therefore, I have complied with those to whom it was right to yield. My ready will to obey them cannot be unwelcome to you, especially since it is joined with the greatest desire to serve the public good, and most particularly the schools of Holland original: "Bataviae". See previous note on the Latin name for the Netherlands. and your own University.

Wherefore, I fully trust it will be so, that just as six years ago you valued my History of the Greek Historians original: "Historiam meam de Historicis Graecis". Referring to Vossius's 1624 work, which categorized and analyzed ancient Greek writers., if not for its own worth, then for my desire to please you, so now you might allow our Commentaries on the rhetorical faculty original: "Commentarios noſtros de Rhetoricâ facultate". Referring to the present volume. to have some place among you. From these, I confess, no honor will be added to you. Instead, your favors, which were freely given, came first. My duty follows, which is owed, and the more it is owed, the less it can be displeasing.

May God, the Best and Greatest, cherish and preserve your love toward studies, and especially your wis-