25 pages • 50 minutes read
Oration on the Dignity of Man
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Essay Topics
What distinguishes man? Pico describes man as uniting the other parts of creation, and having freedom. Can any other creatures be like man?
Do the teachings of different sources agree? Pico cites Greek, Hebrew, Christian, Chaldean, and other traditions. Can these diverse cultures be reconciled?
What drives Pico? He describes himself as interested in truth. What are his other interests?
What would Pico argue today? Are his points still relevant? What would he say about modern controversies?
Describe Pico’s thoughts on magic, using three examples from the text.
Does Pico have an orthodox view? Would his comments be consistent with the views of the church?
What place do secret teachings have in philosophy and religion? Which has more merit: public or secret teachings?
Describe Pico’s thoughts on how humankind can either ascend or descend, depending on their actions.
How do numbers relate to religion? Pico describes numbers as theologically relevant. What can numbers say about the world?
Pico wrote from a Renaissance European viewpoint. Would he have written the same ideas from an Eastern viewpoint?
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