CHAPTER I

LATIN LITERATURE 427

Latin the universal language of scholars. Three great books: The "Imitation of Christ," "Utopia" and the "Spiritual Exercises" of St Ignatius. The "Imitation" the most influential of human books. Other works by a Kempis. Tributes to the "Imitation"; saints, jurists, soldiers, scholars agree in lauding it. One of the world's supremely great books. Illustrative passages. The Ode on Love. "Utopia" and Plato's "Republic" and St. Augustine's "City of God." A vivid piece of fiction. A profound social study. Translation by Bishop Burnet. The "Spiritual Exercises" a book of things, not words. Erasmus' _"Colloquia"_ and the _"Encomium Moriae"_

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