Jacopo Stellini

Italian abbot, writer and philosopher

The Latin treatise De ortu et progressu morum serves as the definitive analytical contribution of Jacopo Stellini to the evolution of moral philosophy. Published in 1740, this text examined the historical origins of human behavior and the social opinions that govern conduct, establishing his reputation within the academic circles of eighteenth-century Italy.

Early Life and Ecclesiastical Training

Born in 1699 in Cividale del Friuli, Stellini originated from a family of modest economic standing, with his father working as a tailor. His initial formal education was directed by the Somaschi order, an institution he formally joined in 1718. He subsequently transitioned to Venice, where he completed seminary studies in Murano and received ordination as a priest in 1722.

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Academic Career at Padua

Stellini spent time in Venice working as a tutor for the Emo family. This connection provided the necessary social support to secure an appointment at the University of Padua. In 1739, he began his tenure as a professor, specializing in the field of moral philosophy. During his time at the university, he balanced these duties with his role as an abbot.

Philosophical Contributions

The intellectual output of Stellini relied heavily upon a scholastic interpretation of Aristotelian ethics. His primary 1740 publication, De ortu et progressu morum, received an Italian translation titled Saggio dell'origine e del progresso de' costumi e delle opinioni a' medesimi pertinenti. Following his death in 1770 in Padua, his legacy was further bolstered by the 1778 publication of two additional manuscripts, Ethicae seu moralium disputationum libri VII and Lucubrationes ethicae.

Fast facts

Questions readers ask

What subjects did Jacopo Stellini teach?

He taught moral philosophy at the University of Padua.

Was any work published after his death?

Yes, Ethicae seu moralium disputationum libri VII and Lucubrationes ethicae were published in 1778.

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