Virtue
As to what I prefer of the courtier he should never be at a loss for good things to say, well suited to whom he's speaking to. He should know how to sweeten and refresh his listener's minds, to move them, discreetly, to gaiety and laughter with amusing witticism and pleasantry, avoiding tedium or satisfaction, continually giving a good time.
The praises given to women are well known and superfluous. Without women we can not get satisfaction or take from this life; an uncouth life, devoid of all sweetness, reduced to a life of wild beasts.
Women filter our hearts of vile and base thoughts, woes, miseries and sick anecdotes. Truthfully, women don't distract, but, awaken our minds toward understanding great matters. In war, women make men fearless and daring. It's not likely cowardice replaces the flame of love. He who lives wants to make himself as lovable as as possible, but fears he will fall short of the loved one's expectation.
He doesn't think twice to throw himself in front of a train. If you formed an army of lovers, defending their lady love, they'd conquer the world, unless they were up against another lover's in their defense.
In perparing for war, the women say something to emflame them, and make them more of men. In battle, they knew the women were watching so that every act of courage, every proof given won them women's praise, for the moment, the greatest reward.
Who learns his dance moves except to impress his lady love? Who gets lost in music for any other reason?
The qualities of women include talent, wisdom, judgement, dexterity, modesty and so many others. But, just as importantly, she should know the discourse of love. Just as a cavalier knows a sharp-dressed man who acts like a man, gets points with the ladies, similarly the chosen words, not only passionately, but to honor the wooed one, that he loves her, she is worthy. Her beauty and merit command obligation.
The woman should know how to converse discreetly, to respond to the one who loves her, but, also, to know how to respond to a false show of love, if she has to pretend ignorance, return his love, or, flat out refuse!
Baldesar Castiglione
The Book of the Coutier
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