Giulio Cesare Capaccio

Giulio Cesare Capaccio

Neapolitan theologian, historian and poet.
Country: Italy

Content:
  1. Neapolitan Theologian, Historian, and Poet
  2. Official Appointment and Literary Pursuits
  3. Literary Output
  4. "Lo Straniero" (1634): A guidebook to the city of Naples.

Neapolitan Theologian, Historian, and Poet

Education and Early Career

Giovan Battista Basile was born in Naples and received his initial education at the Dominican monastery of San Bartolomeo. He continued his studies in Naples and Bologna, honing his skills in theology, history, and poetry.

Official Appointment and Literary Pursuits

In 1607, Basile was appointed as the city secretary of Naples. This position gave him a platform to pursue his literary interests and contribute to Neapolitan cultural life. He became one of the founders of the Neapolitan Accademia degli Oziosi, a society dedicated to the cultivation of the arts and sciences.

Literary Output

Basile's literary output was prolific and diverse. He wrote extensively in both prose and poetry, covering a wide range of topics. Notable works include:

"Il Segretario" (1589): A treatise on the duties and skills of a secretary, following in the tradition of Baldassare Castiglione's "Il Cortegiano."

"Dell'Imprese" (1592): A treatise on emblems and their use in literature and art.

"Mergellina, Egloghe Pescatorie" (1598): A collection of pastoral poems.

"Le favole di Esopo" (1602): A collection of Aesop's fables translated into Neapolitan dialect.

"Lo Straniero" (1634): A guidebook to the city of Naples.

Legacy and Influence

Basile's work had a significant impact on Neapolitan literature and culture. His writings provided a rich source of inspiration for subsequent generations of poets and scholars. His legacy continues to be celebrated in Naples, where he is considered one of the city's most illustrious literary figures.

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