The Trial Against Atheism in Naples (1688-1697)
In the period between 1688 and 1697 Naples was the stage of a large-scale inquisitorial trial against a group of intellectuals accused of atomism and atheism. The documentation presented here reveals that ‘atomism'was used as both an ideological and defamatory label. The introduction and spread of m...
| Main Author: | |
|---|---|
| Format: | Book |
| Published: |
Fondazione Università Ca’ Foscari
2024
|
| Online Access: | View this record in EBSCOhost |
| Summary: | In the period between 1688 and 1697 Naples was the stage of a large-scale inquisitorial trial against a group of intellectuals accused of atomism and atheism. The documentation presented here reveals that ‘atomism'was used as both an ideological and defamatory label. The introduction and spread of modern scientific and philosophical ideas in Naples was in fact linked to a broader cultural renewal. ‘Atomism'was thus used as a rallying cry by liberals, and viewed by their adversaries as a convenient doctrine to attack. Eventually, the Inquisition not only succeeded in preserving the practice of regular inquisitorial activities within the Kingdom but also established a precedent through a series of imprisonments and abjurations. This precedent served as a cautionary measure and deterrent against those engaged in innovative research endeavours. |
|---|