The World of Girolamo Donzellini: A Network of Heterodox Physicians in Sixteenth-Century Venice

Girolamo Donzellini was a religious dissenter, physician, and bibliophile involved in the Medical Republic of Letters. He was put to death by the Venetian Inquisition in 1587 after being tried five times. This book explores the heretical networks of physicians in sixteenth-century Venice, including Donzellini and other printers, scholars, women, and alchemists, who were committed to fighting against religious dogma and violence.

Format: Hardback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Girolamo Donzellini, a multifaceted individual born in 1513, left an indelible mark on history as a religious dissenter, physician, and bibliophile actively participating in the Medical Republic of Letters. However, his journey came to a tragic end when he faced the scrutiny of the Venetian Inquisition in 1587, enduring five trials throughout his lifetime. This groundbreaking monograph delves into the intricate web of connections between Venetian physicians and heterodox religious movements in the aftermath of the Protestant Reformation. It expands beyond a singular case study to provide a detailed and insightful exploration of the heresy networks among physicians in sixteenth-century Venice.

The cast of characters in this narrative extends far beyond Donzellini himself, encompassing printers, scholars, women, and alchemists who shared a common goal of challenging religious dogma and violence. In a time and place where both religious extremism and state-sanctioned violence were prevalent, these individuals courageously stood up against oppressive systems, advocating for freedom of thought and expression.

This book holds immense appeal to scholars and students alike, with interests in the History of Medicine, the History of religious heterodoxy and tolerance, as well as the History of the Catholic Inquisition in Venice. It sheds light on the complex interplay between medicine, religion, and societal dynamics during a pivotal period in European history, offering valuable insights into the lives and struggles of those who dared to challenge the status quo. Through its comprehensive analysis and engaging narrative, this book contributes to our understanding of the multifaceted world of sixteenth-century Venice and its profound impact on the development of medicine, religion, and society as a whole.

Weight: 630g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032112046