Renaissance Florence is often associated with pioneering humanism — but consider the plight of its lowliest residents

The article argues that while Renaissance Florence is renowned for its humanism, it is crucial to acknowledge the hardships faced by its lower-class residents, who were often marginalized in historical accounts. The author emphasizes that the humanist ideals of the time did not extend to all Florentines, highlighting the disparity between the elite's achievements and the dire conditions of the impoverished populace.