Giuseppe Capecelatro

Giuseppe Capecelatro

Neapolitan prelate and writer.
Date of Birth: 01.01.1744

Content:
  1. Neapolitan Prelate and Writer
  2. Political Engagements
  3. Literary Contributions
  4. "On the Festivals of Christians"
  5. Legacy

Neapolitan Prelate and Writer

Early Life and Career

Gennaro Capece Latro was born in Naples, Italy, into a noble family. At a young age, he was appointed Archbishop of Taranto. Despite his ecclesiastical rank, Capece Latro exhibited anti-clerical tendencies. He protested against the abuses of the Roman Church and opposed the imposition of papal taxes in Naples.

Political Engagements

During the reign of Joseph Bonaparte and Joachim Murat, Capece Latro served as Minister of the Interior. After the Bourbon restoration, he was imprisoned due to his political views. He was eventually released due to his immense popularity.

Literary Contributions

Capece Latro wrote extensively on religious and social issues. His influential treatise, "On the Origin, Progress and Decline of the Clergy on Temporal Goods," criticized the wealth and power of the Church. Other notable works include:

"On the Festivals of Christians"

"Plan of Education for the Seminary of Taranto"
"On Christian Baptism"
"On the Cloistering of Religious Women"
"Eulogy of Frederick II, King of Prussia"
Memoir on Clerical Celibacy

Capece Latro's most famous work was his "Memoir on the Celibacy of Priests." He argued against clerical celibacy based on historical and philosophical grounds. The memoir was widely read and sparked significant debate within the Catholic Church.

Legacy

Gennaro Capece Latro remains an enigmatic figure in Italian history. His anti-clerical stance, coupled with his literary accomplishments, made him a controversial and influential writer. His works continue to be studied and debated, providing valuable insights into the complex religious and political landscape of his time.

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