Giambattista Scandella

Giambattista Scandella (also known as Menocchio) was a miller from the Friuli region of Italy, who lived during the 16th century. He is most notable for his heretical beliefs, which led to his trial and execution by the Roman Inquisition.

Early Life

Scandella was born in the small village of Montereale Valcellina, located in the Friuli region of northeastern Italy. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he was a miller by trade. Despite his humble occupation, Scandella was known for his extensive knowledge and his ability to read and write, which was unusual for a person of his social status during that time.

Beliefs and Trial

Scandella's beliefs were heavily influenced by his readings, which included religious texts, philosophical works, and popular literature. He developed a unique cosmology, which he shared with his fellow villagers. His ideas, which included the belief that God and the angels were created from a chaotic substance, were considered heretical by the Roman Catholic Church.

In 1583, Scandella was arrested by the Roman Inquisition and put on trial for heresy. Despite the severity of the charges, he defended his beliefs with remarkable courage and eloquence. He was found guilty and sentenced to death. He was executed in 1599.

Legacy

Scandella's trial and execution are significant because they highlight the tension between popular and official religion during the Counter-Reformation. His case is also notable for the insight it provides into the beliefs and ideas of ordinary people during this period.

File:Giambattista Scandella.jpg

Giambattista Scandella, also known as Menocchio.

See Also

• Roman Inquisition
• Counter-Reformation
• Heresy

References

• Ginzburg, Carlo. The Cheese and the Worms: The Cosmos of a Sixteenth-Century Miller. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press, 1980.

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