"Celenza presents a detailed examination of this neglected but important humanist. A contemporary and acquaintance of Leonardo Bruni, Leon Battista Alberti, and other humanist greats, Lapo da Castiglionchio the Younger presented a bird's-eye view of the papal court. This volume expands the growing canon of Italian Renaissance Latin literature by providing the first truly critical edition of this work as well as the first-ever English translation. In addition, Celenza offers a study that illuminates the social and intellectual context of early humanism. The book discusses Lapo's life and work, the literary context of the dialogue, and the manner in which Lapo skillfully criticized the papal court even as he sought employment there."--BOOK JACKET.