Studying the works of foreign philosophers in their original languages, Bertrando Spaventa emerged as a 19th-century Italian thinker who redefined his nation's intellectual lineage. Born in Bomba in 1817, he navigated a career defined by both rigorous academic pursuit and active participation in the legislative affairs of the newly formed Kingdom of Italy.
Formative Years and Education
Educated at the Diocesan Seminary in Chieti, Spaventa was initially ordained into the priesthood. In 1838, he relocated to Montecassino to teach rhetoric and mathematics before moving to Naples in 1840 for further studies. During this period, he mastered English and German, allowing him to engage directly with contemporary foreign philosophical texts, a practice uncommon among his Italian peers at the time.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Political Exile and Hegelian Influence
Spaventa actively participated in liberal circles, contributing to his brother Silvio’s newspaper, Il Nazionale. Following the repeal of the Constitution by Ferdinando II in 1849, Spaventa faced political pressure and left Naples. During his subsequent residence in Turin, he abandoned the priesthood and transitioned into a career as a journalist for publications such as Il Progresso and Rivista Contemporanea, while simultaneously developing his philosophical system under the strong influence of G.W.F. Hegel.
Academic Theory and European Integration
In 1858, Spaventa accepted a chair at the University of Modena, followed by appointments in Bologna and finally the University of Naples Federico II. His 1860 lectures in Bologna articulated a theory of circular movement in philosophical thought between Italy and Europe. He argued against the then-prevailing view that Italian philosophy was confined to a Platonic-Christian tradition, asserting instead that modern idealism originated in Italy before reaching its apex in Germany.
Legislative Service and Lasting Impact
Spaventa served four terms in the Chamber of Deputies between 1861 and 1876, representing the Historical Right party. A vocal proponent of secular policies and universal suffrage, he envisioned a harmonious, orderly state. As a member of the Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei, his intellectual influence extended to key figures such as Benedetto Croce and Giovanni Gentile, solidifying his role as a bridge between 19th-century Hegelian idealism and 20th-century Italian thought.
Fast facts
- Born: 1817, Bomba
- Died: 1883, Naples
- Citizenship: Kingdom of Italy
- University of Naples Federico II chair
- Member of the Chamber of Deputies: 1861-1865, 1867-1870, 1870-1874, 1874-1876
- Member: Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei
Questions readers ask
What was Spaventa’s core philosophical contribution?
He advocated for a trans-European continuity of thought, arguing that modern idealism had deep roots in Italian history despite the later dominance of German schools.
Was he involved in Italian politics?
Yes, he served four terms in the Chamber of Deputies of the Kingdom of Italy, where he advocated for secularism and universal suffrage.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Naples Federico II
