Per ‘necessità’, per ‘elezione’ o per ‘giustizia’: Sul concetto di legge nel Rinascimento

The law plays a crucial role in Renaissance political thought; this essay examines some features of this concept focusing on Italian authors such as Savonarola, Machiavelli, Guicciardini and Bruno. Three main points are considered. First, it addresses the connection between a pessimistic understanding of human nature and the idea of the law as a necessity. Second, it considers strength as fundamental prerogative of the law which on the one hand contributes to making the rule effective but which, on the other hand, might turn it into an oppressive political tool. Third, it discusses the metaphor of ‘fruits’ as a recurring image which signifies the right criteria whereby a law, a government, and even a religion can be considered righteous, useful and worthy of being respected.