1 - On the order of learning

Summary

Oration of Caspar Cruciger on the order of learning, given at the graduation of Masters, in the year 1531

At this point one would often speak of the whole of philosophy and of the excellence of all those arts that are taught in the schools, because they are considered necessary for living well and happily. Nevertheless – having passed over these declarations on the higher disciplines, which I consider to be most commendable for all because of their obvious usefulness – I have (because of the mediocrity of my wit) set about saying a few things about the kind of disciplines in which we lecture, and by which the young are prepared for grasping the greater arts. Although the teachers also repeat their usefulness to you daily in the schools, still something has to be said here of that matter, so that we may serve tradition.

Since the oration is given by me in the name of all, attribute as much authority to it, young men, as you esteem being in this society of the best and most learned men, your teachers, who have conferred this role upon me. For the thoughts of all of them are conveyed to you by my voice; as they want the best plan for you, they do not desist from urging you in this place to cherish those studies which they judge becoming and useful to you in private, as well as necessary for the upkeep of the state.