Compendium on the Soul

The star of your most blessed grandfather, Paul III Pope Paul III, reigned 1534–1549, known for initiating the Counter-Reformation and patronizing the arts., the Supreme Pontiff, shone before me throughout the whole world. I understood that by the best right, the writings of all men are owed to him, and especially those concerning the soul by the most celebrated author Avicenna Ibn Sina (c. 980–1037), a Persian physician and philosopher whose work "De Anima" (On the Soul) was a cornerstone of medieval and Renaissance psychology.. This is because the guidance of souls has been granted and handed over on earth to His Holiness, acting in the stead of Christ.

But I perceived that he was occupied with higher cares while he restored the Holy Apostolic See—which, whether by fate or the neglect of previous Popes, was looking toward near destruction in the Curia. He has not only restored it to its ancient dignity (and indeed a much greater one than ever before) during times more difficult than any previously known, but he also seems likely (may God grant it) to place it upon the highest step of happiness. Therefore, I turned my mind to you, most eminent Prelate, the true and most glittering image of that sun.

Even though you often place your shoulder alongside your most holy grandfather to support the burden of ruling and governing that same Apostolic See—a task which one day you must sustain by your own strength alone—and although you handle much greater business than your age would seem to allow, to the greatest admiration of all men; nevertheless, out of a certain burning desire for virtue, you are accustomed at times to recall yourself to milder studies mitiora studia: the humanities or liberal arts together with your academic circle. These include Paul Jovius Paolo Giovio (1483–1552), physician, historian, and Bishop of Nocera., Bishop of Nocera; Claudio Tolomei Claudio Tolomei (1492–1556), a philologist and bishop.; Antonio of Mirandola; and many other most serious and learned men of every kind.

Shine forth, therefore, as a most brilliant radiance upon those who are in darkness, and see what Avicenna thinks concerning the soul, and how much he agrees with Christian principles. And if I understand that I have gratified your Illustrious and Most Reverend Lordship in this matter even a little...