History
A brief history
This project arose out of an initial hunch that Adam Contzen's work might be integral to understanding the thoughts and actions of Maximilian I of Bavaria (1573-1651). As we began to translate small sections of Contzen's work, we realized that scholarly consensus on Contzen appears to mischaracterize the argument and scope of the Libri Decem Politicorum. If nothing else, we have found the Libri Decem Politicorum to be an enormous, almost encyclopedic, repository of philosophical, political, religious, economic, and social theory from the classical world to the early modern period.
Where we are today
Our primary goal is to lay the basis for a translation and scholarly commentary of this work which has never been translated out of the original Latin. As we translate small sections, we are also developing an increasingly detailed outline of his argument. We are building from his table of contents and then engaging in the marginal comments found in the 1629 edition (each Book has a section for "Marginal Comments" where we are sharing the results of our transcription and translation). We are also developing a clearer picture of what thinkers, ancient and contemporary, Contzen interacts with (each book has a section for "Works Cited" where we are compiling a list of the authors, works, and ideas that Contzen either quotes or mentions).
Where we are going and how you can help
We are seeking scholars interested in collaborating on translation, transcription, and analysis of the Libri Decem Politicorum. Please contact us with questions about how to get involved!