Horrible, unmanly, indispensable

In 15th-century Italy, guns and gunpowder were widely seen as diabolical devices (evil tools) linked to cowardice rather than bravery.

They were criticized in art and literature, with figures like Ludovico Ariosto calling them foul and pestilent discoveries that undermined chivalry.

However, by the early 16th century, attitudes shifted dramatically.

For example, Lorenzo de’ Medici, a famous Renaissance patron, owned five portable firearms listed in his 1492 inventory.

His descendant, Duke Cosimo de’ Medici, had 91 firearms in storage by 1539, showing how quickly guns became accepted in elite circles.

This change reflected broader military and social transformations across Italy.