uths and upstarts, have managed, by taking advantage of their dissensions, to worm their way into government (Pitti 74). Bruni claims that Florence even has a reputation for the quality of practical wisdom, of generosity, and of being a safe haven (34b). Finally, Bruni calls attention to the fact that since faithfulness and integrity have been so highly valued in this city, it has scrupulously observed agreements even with its enemies, and as a result, Florence has never been accused of defaulting on its promises (35b).The Florentine people are an important part of what makes this city great. They arose from the Roman race; and there is no nation more distinguished, more powerful, and more outstanding is every sort of excellence than Rome (29b-30a). Their dominion was equal to the entire world, and they governed with the greatest competence; these traits are also true of the Florentine people (30a). Bruni feels that if the magnificence of the parents can also make the sons outstanding, then no people in the entire world can be as worthy of dignity as are the Florentines (30a). In addition, it is said that no one will ever think that he really lacks a homeland so long as the city of Florence continues to exist (34b). The Florentines welcome exiles, and even help them with gifts and money (34b-35a). In contrast, Pitti speaks at one time of a henchman of the clique in power in Florence who was in the habit of insulting Florentine exiles to their faces whenever he met them (Pitti 32). Bruni gives off a totally different image of the people. Bruni adds that a huge trait that makes Florence so great is that it has never tolerated injuries to other cities, nor has it ever allowed itself to be an idle onlooker while other states were in trouble (35a). An opposing opinion believes that renaissance Florence was inhabited by individuals who placed the greatest importance upon visible, tangible, material objectives, and who thought first...
