Author
Giambattista della Porta
Died 1615
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Books by Giambattista della Porta
Le commedie - lo astrologo
"Le commedie - Lo astrologio" by Giambattista della Porta is a comedic play written in the early 17th century. The narrative centers around Albumazar, an astrologer, and a cast of characters, including Pandolfo, a wealthy older man desperate for love, who believes in the power of astrology and magic to win the heart of a young woman named Artemisia. The plot unfolds in Naples, where themes of deception, love, and trickery are at the forefront as the characters engage in schemes that blend magic and farce. The opening of the play introduces Albumazar and his companions—Ronca, Arpione, and Gramigna—who are characterized as crafty individuals skilled in deception, preparing for a heist while discussing the art of thievery. They exhibit a misguided sense of honor as they contemplate the potential for riches through deceit. Meanwhile, Pandolfo confides in a servant about his infatuation and plan to manipulate the astrologer’s powers to win back his love from Guglielmo, who is presumably lost at sea. The atmosphere is filled with humor and hyperbole, emphasizing the folly of the characters' actions and desires, setting the stage for a comedic exploration of love and manipulation.
La carbonaria
"La carbonaria" by Giambattista della Porta is a comedic play written in the early 17th century. It revolves around the theme of love and deception in Naples, focusing on the plight of Pirino, an ardent lover who faces challenges in winning the heart of Melitea, who is unjustly sold to a doctor by a ruffian named Mangone. The opening of the play sets the stage with Pirino expressing his deep heartache due to Melitea's absence, contrasting the joy typically associated with love. He confides in his servant, Forca, revealing his despair over Melitea’s situation, as she has been sold into an unwanted relationship. Meanwhile, a multitude of characters are introduced, including the scheming ruffian Mangone and the doctor who wishes to claim Melitea for himself. As the acts unfold, we see Pirino’s determination to rescue Melitea while navigating the treacherous waters of love, servitude, and cunning plots intertwined with comedic misunderstandings and clever manipulations.
Gli duoi fratelli rivali
"Gli duoi fratelli rivali" by Giambattista della Porta is a comedic play written in the early 17th century." The story revolves around two brothers, Don Ignazio and Don Flaminio, whose rivalry escalates as they both vie for the affection of the beautiful Carizia, leading to humorous conflict and misunderstandings among the characters. The play delves into themes of love, jealousy, and the folly of rivalry through witty dialogue and engaging interactions. The opening of the play presents a prologue that critiques ignorant critics who question the validity of theatrical works while establishing the comedic tone. Following the prologue, we are introduced to the main characters, including Don Ignazio, who confesses his infatuation for Carizia to his servant Simbolo, revealing the rivalry with his brother Flaminio. Ignazio is determined to pursue Carizia despite his brother's intentions to marry her, setting the stage for a series of comedic entanglements that stem from their competing desires. As the plot unfolds, tensions rise, foreshadowing the chaotic mix of love and rivalry that will drive the story forward.
La Cintia
"La Cintia" by Giambattista della Porta is a theatrical comedy written in the early 17th century. This work intricately navigates themes of love, identity, and deception, focusing on the central character Cintia, who disguises herself as a male to navigate the complexities of her romantic involvements. The narrative unfolds primarily in Naples, offering insights into the societal norms and expectations of the era regarding gender and relationships. The opening of "La Cintia" sets a vibrant stage, with characters discussing the grand spectacle of a theatrical performance that is about to take place. The prologue introduces Sebeto, a river personified, who marvels at the magnificence of Naples, hinting at the cultural backdrop against which the play is set. As the scene progresses, we meet Cintia, who speaks with her old servant Mitiato about her unrequited feelings towards Lidia and her father's desire for her to marry. Cintia reveals her secret of being female while masquerading as a man, setting off a chain of events filled with misunderstandings and romantic entanglements that promise to unfold throughout the play. The dialogue is rich with humor and emotional tension, establishing Cintia not only as a clever and strong-willed character but also as a victim of societal pressures regarding love and identity.
L'Olimpia
"L'Olimpia" by Giambattista della Porta is a comedic play likely written in the early 17th century. This work encapsulates the vibrant atmosphere of Italian theater during its time, focusing on themes of love, deceit, and social dynamics. The plot revolves around the titular character, Olimpia, who is caught in a love triangle as her mother plans her marriage to Captain Trasilogo, while she deeply longs for her true love, Lampridio. At the start of the play, the prologue introduces the audience to the beautiful Olimpia, who is viewed with a mix of admiration and scrutiny as she hesitates to take center stage. The opening scenes present Olimpia as a conflicted character, torn between fulfilling her mother's ambitions and pursuing her passionate relationship with Lampridio. The Balia (nurse) and Anasira engage in conversations revealing Olimpia's predicament and hinting at a carefully plotted scheme to thwart the unwanted marriage, showcasing a blend of humor and dramatic tension that characterizes the narrative. This initial setup lays the groundwork for a tale rich with comedic elements and emotional stakes.
La fantesca
"La fantesca" by Giambattista della Porta is a comedic play written in the late 16th century. The story revolves around themes of love and jealousy, prominently featuring characters such as Essandro, who disguises himself as a female servant, and Nepita, who is embroiled in the complicated romantic maneuvers involving her mistress Cleria. The play explores the chaos that ensues as love triangles and rivalries develop, driven by the titular concept of jealousy. The opening of the play introduces the personification of Jealousy, who sets the stage for the comedic turmoil to come. This character articulates the destructive nature of jealousy and its ability to reignite romantic passions, laying the foundation for the plot. The audience meets Nepita and Essandro, who engage in a lively banter about their roles and the tensions arising from love and jealousy in their household. As Essandro, in disguise, navigates his feelings for Cleria and the chaos instigated by the jealous dynamics among the characters, the stage is set for a humorous exploration of relationships and the lengths one will go to for love.
La sorella
"La sorella" by Giambattista della Porta is a comedic play written in the early 17th century. The story unfolds in Nola, revolving around romantic entanglements, complicated relationships, and the schemes of a range of characters, including the young Attilio, his servant Trinca, and other various figures caught up in love and deception. At the start of the play, we are introduced to Attilio and his servant Trinca, who discuss Attilio’s impending marriage to Sulpizia, which causes him great distress. The opening scenes highlight the tumultuous emotions surrounding romantic relationships as Attilio expresses his anxiety over both his upcoming marriage and his love for Cleria. Other characters, including the lovesick Erotico and the scheming Balia, further complicate matters as they introduce themes of desire, jealousy, and trickery. These dynamics set up a stage filled with interpersonal conflicts, showcasing a blend of humor, tension, and the human experience in matters of the heart.
La tabernaria
"La tabernaria" by Giambattista della Porta is a comedic play from the late 16th century. The story unfolds in Naples and features a cast of colorful characters, including the father Giacoco, his son Giacomino, and a lazy servant named Cappio, among others. The narrative revolves around themes of love, avarice, and the intricacies of social interactions, hallmarked by the comedic misunderstandings typical of the genre. At the start of the play, Giacoco expresses his desire to engage in some vineyard activities, leaving his son Giacomino and the servant Cappio behind to manage the household. Giacomino is deeply infatuated with Altilia, a beautiful woman, and is fretting about how to woo her in his father’s absence. Cappio, ever the opportunist, devises a plan to transform their home into a tavern for the return of Giacomino’s beloved, leading to humorous exchanges and a series of misunderstandings. The opening sets the tone for a lively exploration of love and comedic misadventures in a bustling Neapolitan backdrop.