Children of the Promise

From its foundation in 1427 to its suppression in 1785, the Confraternity of the Purification gave Florentine youths the opportunity to channel their energy, formerly employed for selfish, often violent, ends into useful, social pursuits. This innovative study shows that the Purification made important contributions to Florentine political, theatrical, artistic and musical developments, and - above all - to European education practices.