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Giovanni della CasaItalian writer of the 16th century.
Date of Birth: 28.06.1503
Country:  Italy |
Content:
Early Life and Education
Giovan Battista Della Casa was an Italian writer born in Tuscany in the 16th century. He received a humanist education in Bologna, Florence, Rome, and Padua. During his youth, he befriended the writers Francesco Berni and Agnolo Firenzuola.
Clerical Career
In 1532, Della Casa began a clerical career under the patronage of Alessandro Farnese. In 1544, Pope Paul III appointed him Archbishop of Benevento and papal nuncio to Venice. He was ruthless in his persecution of Protestants, introducing the Inquisition to the city.
The Index of Forbidden Books
In 1548, Della Casa compiled the Index of Forbidden Books, which listed 149 heretical publications. He fell out of favor under Pope Julius III but regained prominence as Secretary of State under Pope Paul IV.
Literary Works
Della Casa is best known for his treatise "Galateo, or On Customs" (c. 1553-1555), a guide to good manners presented as advice from a tutor to his ward. The term "Galateo" became synonymous with etiquette in Italy. Della Casa also wrote a collection of poems published posthumously and a biography of Pietro Bembo.
Legacy
According to I. N. Golenishchev-Kutuzov, a renowned scholar, Della Casa's writings "are distinguished by their elegance, precision, and lively wit." His "Galateo" remains a classic guide to social graces, while his poems exemplify the mannerist style of his era.
