Giovanni della Casa

Giovanni della Casa (1503-1556) was an Italian poet, diplomat, and writer on etiquette. He is best known for his book Il Galateo, a treatise on manners that was published in 1558.

Della Casa was born in Florence, Italy, in 1503. He studied law at the University of Padua and then entered the service of the Medici family. He held a number of diplomatic posts, including ambassador to Venice.

In 1558, della Casa published Il Galateo, which quickly became a best-seller. The book is a guide to good manners in all aspects of life, from table manners to conversation. It was translated into many languages and influenced the development of etiquette in Europe.

Della Casa was also a poet. His most famous poem is Il Ragionamento, a dialogue on love. He also wrote a number of other poems, including sonnets and satires.

Della Casa died in Rome in 1556. He is remembered as one of the most important writers on etiquette in the Renaissance.

Here are some of the principles that guided della Casa's writing on etiquette:

• Courtesy: Della Casa believed that courtesy was essential for good social relations. He defined courtesy as "the art of making others feel at ease."
• Modesty: Della Casa also stressed the importance of modesty. He believed that people should avoid ostentation and should dress and behave in a way that is appropriate to their social status.
• Refinement: Della Casa believed that good manners should be refined and elegant. He advised his readers to avoid coarse language and vulgar behavior.
• Tact: Della Casa also stressed the importance of tact. He believed that people should be careful not to offend others with their words or actions.

Della Casa's philosophy of etiquette was based on the belief that good manners are essential for creating a harmonious and civil society. He believed that by following the principles of courtesy, modesty, refinement, and tact, people could create a more pleasant and enjoyable world for everyone.

Della Casa's work on etiquette has had a lasting impact on Western culture. His book Il Galateo is still read today and is considered a classic of the genre. His principles of courtesy and refinement continue to be relevant in our own time.

Della Casa is remembered as one of the most important writers on etiquette in the Renaissance. His work has helped to shape our understanding of what it means to be polite and well-mannered. He is also remembered as a poet and diplomat, and his work in these fields has also had a lasting impact.