Baldassare Castiglione was an Italian diplomat, soldier, and author, best known for his book, The Book of the Courtier. Written in the early 16th century, this work outlines the ideal qualities of a courtier and the social etiquette of the Renaissance period. It emphasizes virtues such as grace, wisdom, and the importance of a well-rounded education. Castiglione's influence extended beyond literature; his ideas shaped the behavior and expectations of the European aristocracy. His portrayal of the ideal courtier became a model for noble conduct, impacting the culture of courts across Europe during the Renaissance and beyond.