Exemplary Reading

This monograph sheds new light on the Renaissance reception of Valerius Maximus, whose collection of Memorable Deeds and Sayings was once considered "the most important book next to the Bible". The volume offers a close study of all the humanist commentaries on Valerius Maximus printed between 1470 and 1600. By exploring how his exempla were read in different times and places and in different intellectual milieus, it examines the images of Valerius Maximus spread by his Renaissance commentators, editors and printers amongst an ever growing readership. This study will enhance our general understanding of humanist commentary.