ieves this hatred is due to the well-deserved respect given to the ancient fatherland, seeing as the struggle against tyranny was begun a long time ago when certain evil men undertook the worst crime of allthe destruction of the liberty, honor, and dignity of the Roman people (30b-31a). Bruni points out that Florence is even more honored by its own excellence and achievements, than that of its descent (33a). The city has prospered at home and abroad (33a). The Florentine army was very talented, and their military skill enabled them to win many battles (37a-37b). Pitti and Dati mention the wars and battles of Florence in their diaries. The entire history of Florence is a large part of what makes the city the city it is today, and the one Bruni loves so much.Another aspect of Florence that Bruni raves about is the government. He explains that there are public and private crimes; a private crime derives from the intentions of the individual wrong-doer and public ones are the result of the will of the entire city (34a). Florence uses law and tradition to make judgements and the view of the majority has always been the view of the people (34a). The city has outstanding officials, magistrates, judiciary, and social classes according to Bruni (39b). Florence is extremely fair in all respects, and the government is always trying to carry out justice, punish criminals when needed, and make sure that no one stands above the law (39b). It is made abundantly clear that everyone is of equal rank in Florence, and the same protection offered Florences citizens also protects foreigners (42a). However, according to Pitti, at one point Messer Gregorio was arrested and the whole city was under martial law (Pitti 30). Not exactly the same view Bruni supplies. In addition, Pitti adds that our leaders are divided amongst themselves and have so sacrificed the common good and honor to private grudges and secret feuds that two sorts of citizens, yo...
