The Moral Voice in T.C.’s Fortunatus

Abstract

This article examines the manner in which ‘T.C.’ attempts to infuse Fortunatus (Augsburg, 1509) with moral purpose in the process of translation. His omissions, additions and alterations will be considered, with particular reference to the following issues: criticism of the endless riches symbolised by the Purse of Plenty; advocation of reason and moderation, idealisation of character, especially of the minor nobility; the depiction of exemplary behaviour towards one’s elders and superiors; the merits of travel for youths; and the moralising summatory verse that precedes the translation. It is argued that T.C.’s revision is but a partial success, for his source text is resistent to such moralisation and contains many strengths that disappear in the process of edifying translation.