The Agony and the Ecstacy
The Agony and the Ecstacy
Michelangelo enters the palace and shares his quarters with Bertoldo. The opulence and grandeur of the palace makes him wonder in awe. He feels awkward in the presence of its inmates. However, Lorenzo and Contessina make him feel at home. Bertoldo unfolds the magic of the marble to him. He reveals the technique of shaping the instruments and chiseling the marble. Michelangelo is excited touching the marble and working on it.
Shortly afterwards, Lorenzo invites him to attend the meeting of the Plato Academy comprising of scholars from various fields of learning. Marsilio Ficino had started the academy years ago. A well-read man, he had translated the works of great masters and introduced printing of books in Florence. Christoforo Landino, Angelo Poliziano and Pico are some of the esteemed members of the academy. They query Michelangelo about his knowledge of Greek art and volunteer to teach him the ancient language. They also talk about purifying the church and resurrecting arts and science for the betterment of humanity. Michelangelo is fascinated by their talk and feels enriched in their presence.
The palace springs surprises on him. He is given new pairs of dresses and three gold florins as the wages for a week. Wearing new clothes, he visits