Library

Domenico Scandella, an ordinary miller, lived in the Friuli region of northeastern Italy in the 16th century. He could read and write, and had read books such as the Decameron, the Bible in the Italian vernacular, and Mandeville's Travels, and could retell them in his own language. He faced his neighbors, priests and judges of the Inquisition one after another to express his emotions and explain his views on the church and the world. If he had the opportunity to meet with the Pope or the King, he would also want to make an impassioned speech. Ginzburg weaves a deftly structured and captivating story by moving between the intricate trial archives and elite and lower-class culture. Through the eyes of miller Domenico, we see not only the life and thought world of ordinary people, but also his whims, joys, sorrows, and determination to challenge authority. The magnificent picture of European popular culture in the 16th century and even the grand historical picture of Europe are also slowly unfolding.