GIORDANO BRUNO OF NOLA

can it be fittingly said that one "runs beneath the shadows of ideas"? original: "currere sub umbris idearum" — a reference to the title of the work, suggesting that human knowledge is not a direct vision of truth, but a perception of its reflections or shadows. Again, when they encounter the section regarding the reasoning soul, they will say, "Jordanus, now you claim the soul weaves or spins!" Similarly, in other matters, puffing out their cheeks An idiom for being pompous or indignant., they will be turned away from participating in the fruit of this teaching by a certain internal enemy.

To these people, we wish to make this clear: We also occupied our mind with these same doubts when we were less wise; for then (as was only natural) we used faith to grasp at the sciences. But now, where by the benefit of the powers above we are able to use acquired and discovered truths for further actions of our own—without any just mark of contradiction—we proceed as follows: If a Platonic Refers to the followers of Plato, who emphasized the world of ideal forms. term is convenient and the intention is suitable, it is accepted. If also the Peripatetic Refers to the followers of Aristotle, known for their systematic and empirical approach to logic and nature. intentions contribute to a greater expression of the matter in this art, they are faithfully admitted. Let it be judged similarly concerning others. For we do not find a single craftsman who provides everything necessary for one man. The same man, I say, will not forge and perfect the helmet, the shield, the sword, the spears, the banners, the drum, the trumpet, and all the other armaments of a soldier.