L'espace politique de la renommée d'Érasme à Juste Lipse (1530-1570)

Abstract

The Political Framework of Fame from Erasmus to Lipsius (1530-1570). - The Respublica literaria is considered in the 16th century as an ideal form of political organisation, similar to that of an ancient city. Thus a scholar's fame is linked to an idea of justice and a view to the common interest (utilitas publica). As is shown in Erasmus's correspondence, the great renown of the scholar depends on his degree of involvement in the common interest and the concordia in the Respublica literaria : this is what gives him the good reputation which might turn into glory, that of being called Princeps in optimis litteris. In Justus Lipsiu's works, this hierarchical representation from good reputation to glory does not apply only to the Respublica literaria but to the contemporary political society as well : the idea of concordia, which refers to Cicero, is used to assert the moral and political superiority of the prominent citizen's reputation over that of the great commander.