Villani, the author of the best History of Florence, was a merchant; Dante, Petrarch, and Boccacio, were all engaged in more or less important embassies; and Dante, before becoming a diplomatist, was for some time occupied as a chemist and druggist.

Galileo, Galvani, and Farini were physicians, and Goldoni a lawyer.

Ariosto's talent for affairs was as great as his genius for poetry.

At the death of his father, he was called upon to manage the family estate for the benefit of his younger brothers and sisters, which he did with ability and integrity.

His genius for business having been recognised, he was employed by the Duke of Ferrara on important missions to Rome and elsewhere.