Casanova

Giacomo Casanova
Portrait of Giacomo Casanova
Born	Giacomo Girolamo Casanova (1725-04-02)2 April 1725 Venice, Republic of Venice
Died	4 June 1798(1798-06-04) (aged 73) Duchcov, Bohemia, Holy Roman Empire
Nationality	Italian
Occupation	Adventurer, writer, librarian
Known for	His autobiography Histoire de ma vie

Giacomo Girolamo Casanova (2 April 1725 – 4 June 1798) was an Italian adventurer and author from the Republic of Venice. His autobiography, Histoire de ma vie (Story of My Life), is regarded as one of the most authentic sources of the customs and norms of European social life during the 18th century. Casanova has become so famous for his often complicated and elaborate affairs with women that his name is now synonymous with "womanizer".

Early Life

Casanova was born in Venice to actress Zanetta Farussi and actor Gaetano Giuseppe Casanova. He was the eldest of six children. His father died when he was eight, and he was sent to live with his grandmother. Casanova was a sickly child, suffering from nosebleeds and other ailments, but he showed early signs of intelligence and was sent to the University of Padua at the age of 12, where he graduated with a degree in law at 17.

Career

Casanova's career was varied and colorful. He worked as a clergyman, soldier, violinist, and magician. He also became a diplomat and spy for the Republic of Venice. However, he is best known for his romantic escapades and his autobiography, Histoire de ma vie, which provides a detailed account of his adventures across Europe.

Writing

Casanova's most famous work is his autobiography, Histoire de ma vie. Written in French, it covers his life from his birth until 1774. The memoirs are considered a valuable historical document, providing insight into the social and cultural life of the 18th century. Casanova also wrote plays, novels, and essays, but none achieved the fame of his autobiography.

Later Life and Death

In his later years, Casanova worked as a librarian for Count Waldstein in Duchcov, Bohemia. He continued to write and correspond with prominent figures of his time. Casanova died on 4 June 1798 in Duchcov.

Legacy

Casanova's name has become synonymous with "womanizer" due to his numerous romantic liaisons. His autobiography remains a significant historical document, offering a vivid portrayal of 18th-century European society.

Related Pages

• Republic of Venice
• Histoire de ma vie
• Venice
• University of Padua
• Duchcov