"Oration on the Dignity of Man" is a famous work by the Italian philosopher Giovanni Pico della Mirandola, written in 1486. It is often considered a foundational text of the Renaissance and emphasizes the unique position of humans in the universe. Pico argues that humans have the ability to shape their own destinies through free will, distinguishing them from other creatures.
The oration presents a vision of humanity as a bridge between the divine and the earthly. Pico asserts that individuals can achieve greatness by pursuing knowledge and virtue, reflecting the potential for personal growth and self-improvement. This work highlights the importance of humanism and the value of individual potential.