Giovanni Della Casa
Giovanni Della Casa was an influential Italian poet, diplomat, and cleric, renowned for his contributions to literature and social etiquette during the Renaissance. Born in 1503, he became a prominent figure in the cultural and political life of Italy, serving in various diplomatic roles while also engaging in literary pursuits. His most notable work, 'Il Galateo overo de’ costumi,' published posthumously in 1558, is a seminal treatise on manners and polite behavior that has left a lasting impact on the discourse surrounding etiquette. Della Casa's insights into social conduct reflect the complexities of Renaissance society and its values, making his work a crucial reference point in the study of civility and decorum. The treatise 'Il Galateo' not only established Della Casa as a key figure in the genre of courtesy literature but also influenced subsequent generations of writers and thinkers. His exploration of manners was considered groundbreaking, as it combined practical advice with a keen understanding of human nature and social dynamics. Critics, such as Giuseppe Baretti in the 18th century, recognized the elegance of his prose, further cementing his legacy as a master of style in the Italian language. Giovanni Della Casa's work continues to be studied for its relevance to social behavior and its reflection of the cultural milieu of his time.
Famous Quotes
View all 2 quotes“A man must...not be content to do things well, but must also aim to do them gracefully.”
“Non si dee adunque l'uomo contentare di fare le cose buone, ma dee studiare di farle anco leggiadre. E non è altro leggiadria che una cotale quasi luce che risplende dalla convenevolezza delle cose che sono ben composte e ben divisate l'una con l'altra e tutte insieme: senza la qual misura eziandio il bene non è bello e la bellezza non è piacevole.”
