Chapter Le similitudini animali nel De lite inter Naturam et Fortunam di Albertino Mussato

Abstract

The paper analyses a brief passage from the dialogue De lite inter Naturam et Fortunam by Albertino Mussato, in which two animal similes are employed. The sources of these similes are identified, revealing a combination of literary and poetic passages as well as of scientific treatises. Among the latter, Aristotle’s De historia animalium in the rare translation by William of Moerbeke stands out, whose circulation in early 14th-century Padua is discussed. Finally, the author reflects on Mussato’s use of elements drawn from the animal world, highlighting both the continuity and innovations compared to medieval practices.