The New Science

...[destruc]tor of the human species, and especially of Christians in their continuous wars. For which reason (O Excellent Duke), I not only totally set aside the study of such matter and applied myself to studying something else, but I even tore up and burned every calculation and writing noted by me that spoke of such matter. And I much grieved and felt ashamed for the time spent on such things, and those particulars that remained inscribed in my memory (against my will), I never wished to reveal to anyone, neither for friendship nor for reward (although I have been requested by many), because in teaching them it seemed to me that I was making a shipwreck original: "far naufragio"; a metaphor for a moral disaster or a spiritual failing. and a great error.

But now, seeing the wolf Tartaglia refers to the Ottoman Empire, which at the time of writing (1537) was a significant military threat to Europe and Italy. eager to enter into our flock, and all our shepherds joined together in defense, it no longer seems lawful to me at present to keep such things hidden. Instead, I have deliberated to publish them, partly in writing and partly by word of mouth, to every faithful Christian, so that everyone may be better able both to attack and to defend themselves from it.

And I much regret (Magnanimous Lord) that I then abandoned such study, because I am certain that had I followed it until now, I would have found things of greater value (especially in the composition of firesoriginal: "cõposition de fuochi"; refers to the chemical recipes for gunpowder and incendiary weapons.), as I hope shortly to find still. But because the present is certain (Illustrious Lord) and (the time being short) the future is doubtful, I wish first to dispatch that which I currently have. And to put such a thing partly into execution, I have composed in great haste this present little work: which, just as every river naturally seeks to approach and unite with the sea, so this work—knowing (your Illustrious Lordship to be the summit among mortals of every martial virtueoriginal: "bellica uirtu"; the skill and character required for leadership in war.)—seeks to approach and unite with that greatness.

Therefore, just as the abundant sea, which has no need of water, does not disdain to receive a small river, so I hope that your Lordship will not disdain to accept it, so that the most expert gunnersoriginal: "bõbardieri"; artillery specialists who operated heavy cannons. of this our Most Illustrious Ducal Dominion, subjects of your Highness, beyond their excellent and practical ingenuity, may be better instructed in reason Tartaglia emphasizes "reason" (theory/mathematics) as a necessary supplement to "practice" (trial and error). and able to execute the commands of your Lordship.