Manual Work and Mental Work: Humanist Knowledge for Professions in the Siglo de Oro

In the early modern period, texts discussed professions, emphasizing mental work over manual labor, with Spain's importance due to its emperor and ruler of America. Knowledge, professions, and prominent representatives were presented, with satire revealing hierarchization and relativization. The mechanical arts and artes liberales were followed by higher faculties of medicine, theology, and jurisprudence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 266 pages
Publication date: 11 March 2023
Publisher: Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG

In the vibrant tapestry of early modern society, a multitude of texts emerged, delving into the intricate world of professions. These narratives not only imparted the essential knowledge required for each respective field but also painted vivid portraits of individual activities, their purposes, origins, and esteemed prestige. The philosophical foundation of this discourse embraced a humanistic perspective, centering its attention on the human essence. Here, the ancient notion of the primacy of mental work over manual labor took center stage, shaping the narrative's trajectory. The significance of Spain emerged from the remarkable fact that King Charles V, the Spanish monarch, held the dual roles of emperor and ruler over the colonies in America. In essence, he presided over a vast world empire, embodying the standards of that era.

Following a comprehensive exploration of central categories, encompassing overarching representations of knowledge, professions, and prominent professional figures, the stage was set for a revealing examination. Here, the interplay of hierarchization and its relativization through satire emerged, unveiling the complexities of societal structures. The mechanical arts and the artes liberales took center stage, showcasing the diverse expertise and specialized knowledge associated with individual professions. Each profession was presented as a distinctive example, accompanied by its own unique corpus of knowledge.

As the narrative unfolded, the higher faculties of medicine, theology, and jurisprudence emerged as the concluding chapters, representing the pinnacle of intellectual pursuits. These esteemed institutions were represented by their esteemed representatives, who contributed their wisdom and expertise to the broader discourse.

In summary, this rich tapestry of texts delved into the multifaceted world of professions, providing a comprehensive understanding of the knowledge, activities, and esteemed status of various fields. Through a humanistic lens, they shed light on the interplay between hierarchies, satire, and the pursuit of knowledge in early modern society.

Weight: 438g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783662663653
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023