17.

Blessed John and Saint Anthony Saint Anthony the Great (c. 251–356), a central figure among the Desert Fathers, often depicted in similar stories regarding the need for occasional relaxation. were not to be reproved for finding delight in animals, which are called playful or humorous; this is not evil in itself. Indeed, it is right to use such games in a clean manner, properly governing the moderation and relaxation of the soul. This is what the Philosopher A standard medieval title for Aristotle. says in the fourth book of the Ethics original: "4o ethit."; referring to Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, where he discusses the virtue of "wittiness" or "pleasantness" (eutrapelia) as a mean between buffoonery and boorishness.: we must take care in games that we do not fall into the extremes of vice.

Aristotle These extremes especially must be guarded against. It is best and appropriate that only a small amount of delight be taken in such things, just as laughter or joking should be moderate. Among these, the game of dice original: "ludus taxillos"; dicing was strictly forbidden for the clergy in medieval canon law due to its association with gambling, swearing, and idleness. is especially prohibited for the clergy, according to the laws on the life and honesty of clerics.

Secondly, one must take care that a total loss of gravity Or "seriousness." does not dissolve the soul, according to Tully Marcus Tullius Cicero (106–43 BCE), the Roman orator and philosopher, frequently cited by medieval scholars. in the first book of On Duties original: "1o de offic."; Cicero's De Officiis.. For he says: we are not given to this world as if for playing and jest, but rather for serious and honest studies. Thus, in games, what is shameful or overly dissolute should be left behind, and what is honorable and good should be embraced. For a shameful or dissolute game is followed by tribulation or a storm of adversities; and if one does not face it here, they will surely not escape it in the future life.

Cicero This is proven even by dolphins; while they play in the sea, they are seen to signify future storms, as Isidore Isidore of Seville (c. 560–636), whose Etymologies served as the primary encyclopedia for the Middle Ages. says in the twelfth book of the Etymologies.

Isidore For nothing in the sea is swifter than they. They fly over the ships as they leap. In the same way, there are certain games in which agility or the strength of the body is tested; these are suitable for soldiers according to the place and time, but not for clerics and religious persons. Indeed, the clergy are prohibited from hunting original: "venari"; hunting was restricted for priests because it was considered a "bloody" and loud pursuit unsuitable for their status., especially if it is done with shouting and hounds, as noted in the laws. Thirdly, it must be noted...