The Autobiography of Thomas Platter, a schoolmaster of the sixteenth century.

"The Autobiography of Thomas Platter, a schoolmaster of the sixteenth century" is a historical account likely written in the mid-19th century. This autobiography provides a detailed and personal look into the life of Thomas Platter, illustrating his journey from humble beginnings in Switzerland to various roles including a goatherd, student's servant, and ultimately a schoolmaster and scholar. The text delves into his formative years, capturing the challenges he faced and the influences that shaped his education and beliefs. The opening of the autobiography presents Thomas Platter's early life, beginning with his birth on Shrove-Tuesday in 1499. He reflects on the loss of his father at a young age due to the plague and recounts his childhood experiences, including tending to goats under difficult conditions. Platter shares vivid memories of his family, his various caretakers, and the superstitions that surrounded his upbringing. He describes both the physical hardships he faced while herding and the tender moments that showcased his early aspirations for learning and spirituality, hinting at the future trajectory his life would take as he transitioned into a scholar and teacher.