Heroic Frenzies: A Translation of De gli eroici furori (1585) (Lorenzo Da Ponte Italian Library)

Giordano Bruno (1548–1600), an Italian astronomer and Dominican friar, has long been an enigma of early modern European philosophy. He was found guilty of heresy by the Roman Inquisition and burned at the stake. Bruno's central 1586 work, "On the Heroic Frenzies," has shown a particular need for a fresh examination. This vibrant bilingual edition, annotated by celebrated Bruno scholar Ingrid D. Rowland, features the text in its original Italian alongside an elegant, accurate English translation.

"On the Heroic Frenzies" is a multifaceted work, encompassing a philosophical dialogue, an anthology of love poetry, and a collection of sonnets, songs, and emblems – sometimes borrowed from other writers, but primarily Bruno's own. Rowland's detailed introduction and extensive footnotes highlight the philosophical sources, Biblical allusions, and biographical elements that make Bruno's work both richly conceived and often challenging to understand.

Rowland's edition of "On the Heroic Frenzies" is a helpful guide for those new to Bruno's work, providing cohesive insights into the text. The bilingual format allows readers to engage with the original Italian version alongside the English translation, offering a deeper understanding of Bruno's complex and nuanced writing.

Bruno's work has long been a subject of fascination and scholarly inquiry. His philosophical ideas, which often challenged the prevailing orthodoxies of his time, have continued to captivate and inspire thinkers throughout the centuries. The Roman Inquisition's condemnation of Bruno's writings and his subsequent execution have only served to further intensify the enigmatic nature of his legacy.

Rowland's edition of "On the Heroic Frenzies" is a valuable contribution to the ongoing exploration of Bruno's philosophical and literary significance. The detailed annotations and the juxtaposition of the Italian and English texts provide readers with a comprehensive and engaging way to engage with this seminal work. By shedding light on the sources and influences that shaped Bruno's thought, Rowland's edition offers a deeper understanding of the intellectual landscape of early modern Europe and the challenges faced by those who dared to question the established order.

In conclusion, Rowland's bilingual edition of "On the Heroic Frenzies" is a crucial resource for scholars and students alike, offering a fresh perspective on Giordano Bruno's complex and multifaceted work. Through its meticulous annotations and seamless translation, this edition invites readers to delve into the rich tapestry of Bruno's philosophical and literary explorations, illuminating the enduring relevance of his ideas in the contemporary intellectual discourse.

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