An atheist and patriot, he produced foundational works in Italian and Latin, ultimately dying in Turnham Green at the age of 49 before being interred in his final tomb.
Early Education and Political Turmoil
Born in 1778, Foscolo relocated to Venice following his father's death in 1788. He completed his studies at the University of Padua, where he was mentored by Abbé Melchiore Cesarotti. Following the fall of the Republic of Venice and the Treaty of Campo Formio in 1797, Foscolo became deeply involved in political activism, initially supporting Napoleon with the expectation of achieving a free republic.
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Foscolo published his first tragedy, Tieste, in 1797. His literary prominence grew with the 1798 publication of The Last Letters of Jacopo Ortis, often regarded as the first modern Italian novel. His 1807 work, Dei Sepolcri, emerged as a significant reflection on history and national identity, written in direct response to Napoleon's 1804 decree that prohibited burials within city limits.
Academic and Military Life
His career moved between the battlefield and the lecture hall. He participated in the Battle of the Trebbia and the siege of Genoa while serving in the military. In 1809, he accepted a chair in Italian rhetoric at the University of Pavia. His inaugural lecture on the duties of literature prompted the eventual abolition of such chairs by Napoleon, forcing Foscolo to relocate to Tuscany.
Final Works and Translation
During his time in Florence, Foscolo focused on the tragedy Ricciarda and began his ode to The Graces, which he dedicated to Canova. He remained active as a translator, notably producing a version of Laurence Sterne's A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy. He died in 1827 while in Turnham Green, leaving behind a body of work defined by its engagement with both classical tradition and modern political reality.
Fast facts
- Born: 1778, Zakynthos
- Died: 1827, Turnham Green
- Notable Works: Dei Sepolcri; The Last Letters of Jacopo Ortis
- University of Padua alumnus
- Languages: Italian and Latin
- Religious views: atheism
- Member: Accademia delle Arti del Disegno; Academy of Sciences of Turin
Questions readers ask
What was the significance of The Last Letters of Jacopo Ortis?
It is widely considered the first modern Italian novel and explores themes of mental suffering and patriotism.
Why was Foscolo forced to leave Milan in 1812?
His tragedy Ajax contained allusions to Napoleon, which led to his mandatory relocation to Tuscany.
Achievements
- Notable work: The Last Letters of Jacopo Ortis
- Notable work: Dei Sepolcri
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