Tullia d'Aragona fut une figure de proue de la Renaissance italienne dont les recherches littéraires et intellectuelles remirent en question les normes sociales. En tant que courtisane renommée, elle cultiva un salon sophistiqué qui attirait les plus grands esprits philosophiques et littéraires de l'époque. Son implication dans ces cercles favorisa sa propre carrière d'écrivaine naissante, marquée par des contributions perspicaces au discours intellectuel. Par sa position unique et son intellect aiguisé, d'Aragona se tailla une place importante dans le paysage culturel dynamique de son temps.
First published in Venice in 1547, this work casts a woman rather than a man as the main disputant on the ethics of love. Tullia d'Aragona argued that the only moral form of love between a woman and a man is one that recognizes both the sensual and the spiritual needs of humankind.
Written in Ottava Rima by Signora Tullia d'Aragona, a Work in Which One May See and Learn to Know the Main Parts of the Whole World, Along with Many Other Very Pleasant Things, Which Will Be Extremely Welcome to Every Kind of Intelligent Reader.
This bilingual edition presents Tullia d'Aragona's groundbreaking epic poem, the first by an Italian woman, exploring themes of identity and adventure. Set against the backdrop of the 16th century's historical and religious shifts, it follows Guerrino, a nobleman enslaved by pirates, on his quest to find his parents. His journey takes him through various cultures and fantastical challenges, reflecting the evolving literary landscape influenced by Ariosto's works. This poem is significant in the epic genre and paved the way for future female authors.