300 Years of Casanova: Revisiting the Legacy of a Venetian Polymath
On the tricentennial of his birth, Giacomo Casanova is celebrated not just as a romantic figure but as a writer, philosopher, and adventurer who shaped 18th-century European thought and culture.
- Giacomo Casanova, born April 2, 1725, in Venice, is widely remembered for his romantic exploits but was also a polymath engaged in writing, philosophy, diplomacy, and alchemy.
- His daring 1756 escape from Venice's Bleikammern prison remains one of his most legendary acts, solidifying his fame across Europe.
- Casanova's memoirs, 'Geschichte meines Lebens,' offer a vivid account of his life, societal insights, and interactions with figures like Mozart and Catherine the Great.
- Despite achievements like founding a lottery in France, Casanova's life was marked by financial instability and frequent legal troubles.
- The 300th anniversary of his birth has prompted a reevaluation of his legacy, emphasizing his intellectual contributions and historical significance beyond his romantic reputation.
Der Tagesspiegel 
FOCUS online 
Augsburger Allgemeine 
Die Rheinpfalz 
junge Welt 