Epistola ad Mahomatem II- (Epistle To Mohammed II): Edited with Translation and Notes by Albert R. Baca

by Pope Pius II

This is a text and translation with introduction, notes, and index, of the Epistola ad Mahomatem II ( Epistle to Mohammed II) of Aeneas Silvius Piccolomini (Pope Pius II, 1458-1464). Written ca. 1460, the goal of the epistle is to persuade Mohammed II, who had conquered Constantinople in 1453, not to press his attack on the West and to persuade him of the benefits of converting to Christianity. The epistle is an eloquent presentation of humanistic values and an interesting document of contemporary, occidental attitudes towards Islam and the Moslem religion.

233 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 1990

About the author

also writes as: Aeneas Silvius Piccolomini

Pope Pius II (Latin: Pius PP. II, Italian: Pio II), born Enea Silvio Bartolomeo Piccolomini (Latin Aeneas Silvius Bartholomeus) was the head of the Catholic Church from 19 August 1458 to his death in 1464. He was born at Corsignano in the Sienese territory of a noble but decayed family. His longest and most enduring work is the story of his life, the Commentaries, which is the only autobiography ever written by a reigning Pope. He is also known for his erotic writings done before he became pope.