Unlike some other reproductions of classic texts (1) We have not used OCR(Optical Character Recognition), as this leads to bad quality books with introduced typos. (2) In books where there are images such as portraits, maps, sketches etc We have endeavoured to keep the quality of these images, so they represent accurately the original artefact. Although occasionally there may be certain imperfections with these old texts, we feel they deserve to be made available for future generations to enjoy.

This collection of biographical sketches, first published in the 16th century, celebrates the lives and accomplishments of some of the most remarkable women of the Renaissance. From writers and poets to queens and courtesans, the subjects of these sketches are portrayed with humor, wit, and admiration for their talents. With its lively prose and insightful commentary, this book is an entertaining and informative glimpse into a golden age of European culture. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

Lives of Fair and Gallant Ladies is a two-volume work by French historian and biographer Pierre de Bourdeille dealing with women and their position in the culture and society in medieval France. Bourdeille writes in a quaint conversational way, pouring forth his thoughts, observations or facts with the greatest frankness. His works give a picture of the general court-life of the time, with its unblushing and undisguised profligacy. There is not an homme illustre or a dame galante in all his gallery of portraits who has not engaged in sexual immorality; and yet the whole is narrated with the most complete unconsciousness that there is anything objectionable in their conduct.